Police Explorers

The explorers are a group of young adults between 14 and 20 years of age dedicated to helping the community through Law Enforcement training and guidance. The volunteer group meets multiple times each month with Police Advisors for training, meetings, and assisting the Bridgeton Police Department with city operations and events. The Explorer program is built on the same structure as the police department and maintains an operational chart, it also allows firsthand experience in the operation of a working police department. As the youth grow and advance in the program they have more responsibilities and gain rank. Scenario based training allows the Explorers to experience the rolls of Law Enforcement when dealing with public issues and calls for service.

Essential & Ancillary Job Duties

Bridgeton Police Explorers have an active all year schedule of events, details and trainings. They are expected to maintain an 80% attendance requirement to maintain the integrity, quality and safety of the group. The explorers currently meet twice a month for training, review, and certifications. Other dates are added monthly to provide service for parades, holiday functions, D.A.R.E events and other city sponsored activities. Police explorers will learn about many aspects of Law Enforcement.

Training

They receive training in internal departments such as:

  • Crime Scene Investigation and Evidence
  • Cyber Crime
  • Detective Bureau
  • Drug Task Force
  • K-9
  • Patrol Division
  • Traffic Division
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Working in the Department

They also experience and spend some time in the Bridgeton Dispatch Center, Police Records Office and Bridgeton Municipal Court to understand all of the operations and procedures of each area. 

Job Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

You must meet the following qualifications to apply to become an explorer:

  • Ability to commit to 80% or more attendance for details, meetings, and training
  • Currently have and maintain a “C” average in all school related classes
  • Must be 14 to 20 years of age
  • No major school discipline in the last year
  • No misdemeanor or felony convictions
  • To apply download the Police Explorer Application and turn into the Bridgeton Police Department.
  • True interest in Law Enforcement and be able to work well with a group to accomplish tasks

Apply to Become an Explorer

If you are interested in becoming an explorer and meet all of the qualifications, please email the department or call Officer Tim Miller Dispatcher Jen Ervin at 314-373-3899 to turn in the application (PDF). The Police Explorers are a crucial part in assisting the Bridgeton Police Department with functions and daily volunteer needs; their work is greatly appreciated.