The Bradenton Police Explorer Program is open to young men and women interested in law enforcement. The program stresses character, physical fitness, and community engagement. Explorers participate in weekly training sessions that familiarize them with all aspects of law enforcement, including patrol operations, arrest procedures, criminal investigations, traffic stops, traffic crash investigations, firearm safety, and traffic/criminal law.

Program Benefits:

• Gain leadership skills, build morals and core values, and become better citizens

• Earn community service hours

• Add experience to college applications and resumes

• Learn laws & procedures

• Participate in ride-alongs with officers after completing six hours with the BPD Communications Center

Membership Requirements:

• Applicants must be 14-19 years old and have completed 8th grade

• At least a 'C' average grade at an accredited school

• Good physical health and moral health, with no arrests or convictions

• Must attend three consecutive meetings before submitting an application

• Two letters of recommendation are required

• A parent or legal guardian's cooperation is required. Guardians must ensure their child can attend meetings and events

• Applicants must pass a selection process that includes an interview and a background investigation

• No membership fee is required; however, Explorers must bring two canned goods to the first meeting of each month to be donated to a food drive

Meetings:

Thursdays, 5-8 p.m. BPD Community Oriented Policing (COPs) House,1801 17th Ave. W.

Contact:

For more information on the Explorer Program, contact Captain Dennis Stahley at dennis.stahley@bradentonpd.com.