Vallejo Police Department Explorer Program

Learn About the Explorer Program

Overviewexplorer program cadets

The Vallejo Police Department Explorer Post strives to create interest in law enforcement by exposing youth to the many duties police officers perform while building the self-confidence and character of the Police Explorers. While many explorers go on to be successful Police Officers, the explorer program provides an opportunity for youth to explore their interest in all areas of policing.  Some may realize becoming a Police Officer may not be the exact profession they wanted, others will thrive in their career as a Police Officer.  Sometimes, explorers find more interest in other jobs within the police department.  Many explorers have held jobs as crime scene investigators, dispatchers, and police clerks.  By teaching them new skills and challenging them to overcome obstacles we prepare them for a career in law enforcement and teach them the necessary tools to be successful in any profession they choose.
Explorers learn the importance of cooperation and teamwork in achieving goals as well as accepting individual responsibility. Through service to the community the Explorers are taught the necessity of civic duty.

The Explorers participate in a variety of activities throughout the city and Police Department.  Some of those include:  monthly training covering various topics related to police work, “ride-a-longs” with police officers, assistance at DUI checkpoints, holiday fairs, waterfront events, fundraisers, and statewide competitions.

Purpose

The purpose of the Police Explorer Program is to provide the young men and women of the community the opportunity to explore their interests and aptitudes in the field of law enforcement by on-the-job exposure. The Explorer unit has a command structure that parallels the regular police department chain of command.

Selection Requirements

To be selected to the Police Explorer Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • 14-18 years of age at time of appointment
  • United States citizen
  • Resident of Solano County
  • Possess a High School diploma or GED certificate. If still in High School applicants must maintain a "C" average or better.
  • Good physical condition with weight in proper proportion to height
  • Vision must be 20/100 or better, correctable to 20/30 or better in each eye. Hearing must be unimpaired.
  • Good moral character. Conviction of a felony is disqualifying. A background investigation will be conducted.
  • Possess the ability to clearly express thoughts in written and oral form
  • Be willing to contribute at least 10 hours a month to the Explorer Program

Selection Process

Interested and qualified persons must submit an Explorer application which is available to be picked up at the Vallejo Police Department, at the VPD website, or you may download it from our website.

Instructions for completion and return are on the application. The applications will be reviewed to ensure that the applicant meets the basic requirements for the position. A preliminary criminal investigation records check will be conducted. If the records check is clear, the applicant will be notified of the date and time for a personal interview. The interview will measure the applicant's abilities for decision making, communications, and public relations as well as grooming and demeanor. Applicants are welcome and encouraged to ask questions about the program.

If the interview is successful, the applicant will be given a background information packet to complete. The background investigation will then be conducted. If it is successful, the applicant will be invited to join the Vallejo Police Explorer program.

Training

Vallejo Police explorers are required to successfully complete a physical agility test, POST training, written, and practical testing.  Monthly training is available in a variety of fields including: report writing, tactics, firearms, driving, call response, and investigations.

Further Information

If you have any questions regarding the program, please feel free to email our advisors at VPD.explorers@cityofvallejo.net

Program Funding

Because this program is funded by community donations, your donation will go a long way to help provide our Explorers with uniforms, equipment, and attending activities to represent the City of Vallejo and the Vallejo Police Department. Thank you.

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