The Explorer Program at the Ada County Sheriff's Office is a great way for youth in our community to explore opportunities in law enforcement.
- Discover the many facets of the Sheriff's Office.
- Determine if law enforcement is the career for you.
- Volunteer in our community while learning about public service.
Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with time allotted for physical training. There is no physical test to pass, but members will be expected to participate in physical training.
Explorers must be between the ages of 16-21 and must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 while in the program. Members must also be responsible in home and school duties. Steps to becoming an Explorer are:
- Fill out the application.
- Undergo a background check.
- Interview with an advisor.
Have a good attitude! The Explorer Program is meant to be educational and fun. Be ready to learn and ask questions. Be ready to participate in physical activities and meet new people.
Monthly meetings total four hours a month. Opportunities to help deputies with traffic control and community events are available most of the year. A minimum amount of hours for each section that need to be completed each year are:
- 10 hours in Records/Property/Crime Analysis
- 10 hours in Dispatch
- 10 hours in the Jail
- 20 hours in Patrol.
At least half the required hours for Records, Dispatch and the Jail are to be completed before riding in Patrol. Once all hours are complete, Explorers are free to do more ride-alongs in patrol. When all hours are complete for each section, a basic skills test will be given for each section.
Many former Explorers have come to work at the Ada County Sheriff's Office. Becoming an Explorer will open the door for you if you are considering law enforcement as your chosen profession!
Questions about the Explorers? Check our Frequently Asked Questions page.
