The Arlington Police Department began its Explorer program in the mid-seventies. The program was affiliated with Boy Scouts of America Learning for Life program. APD’s post #602 program has introduced many young people to careers in law enforcement.
Beginning January 1st, 2023, APD’s Explorer program transitioned to the national Public Safety Cadet program as Unit# 602. The APD Cadet Program membership is open to anyone age 14 to 20 who is interested in pursuing a law enforcement career. Members receive police-related training and exposure that includes ride-outs with APD patrol officers. Cadets are also involved in many community service projects in Arlington.
The structure of the APD Cadet program, mirrors that of a typical police department. Opportunities for leadership within the post occur by promotion. The post is led by a captain, followed by a lieutenant, and a sergeant under the supervision of adult mentors who are officers of the APD School Resource unit.
Program Goals
APD’s Public Safety Cadets goal is to educate and involve youth in police operations and to interest them in a possible future career as a law enforcement officer. Cadets are challenged to expand their knowledge of policing as well as their civic roles within the community through service. Cadets are trained in several different policing aspects which prepares them for a career in law enforcement and to participate in competitions. During the competitions, Cadets are judged on their teamwork and their ability to "handle the call".
Ride Along Program
Cadets may earn the privilege to participate in the Arlington Police Department's Ride Along program. The Cadet will ride with an officer during their shift to experience the real world of police work.
Basic Requirements
- Age 14-20 (must have completed the 8th grade)
- Minor must have parent approval (under 18)
- Have a clean background.
- Maintain passing grades.
- Attend Arlington schools or reside in Arlington, Pantego, Dalworthington Gardens, Mansfield, or Kennedale.
- Provide own transportation to and from meetings.
- Achieve and maintain basic physical fitness requirements.
- Completion of an 11-week Basic Academy offered in the fall and spring depending on scheduling and availability.
Topics Include
-
Organization / structure
- Teamwork
- Standard Operating Procedure
- Community-based policing
- Ethics in law enforcement
- Texas Penal Code
- Texas Criminal Code of Procedure
- Case law
- Police radio procedure
- Interpersonal skills
- Report writing / note taking
- Defensive tactics / handcuffing
- Traffic control
- Crowd control
- Physical fitness
- Ride Along procedure
- Crime scene investigation
- Emergency first aid
- Crisis intervention / First responder
- Hostage negotiation
- Building searches
- Robbery in progress
- Drug raids
- Accident investigation
- Traffic stops
- Working in committees
- Leadership
Vision Statement
Preparing young adults for careers and leadership in the public safety profession.
Mission Statement
Mentoring young adults to serve their communities by providing knowledge, skills and practical experiences through education and training delivered by public safety professionals that build character, physical fitness and respect for the rule of law.
Values and Principles Statement
The following core values and principals are the foundation of our program and instilled in all program activities.
Fair and impartial public safety services to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex or religion, and a respect for diversity and the rule of law.
Training programs, practical experiences, and activities that not only better prepare young adults for a public safety career, but also emphasize the role of first responders in a democratic society.
Preparing the next generation of public safety professionals through development programs that emphasize the concept of “servant leadership”.
Community engagement and support are critical to successfully achieving the mission of public safety organizations. Engaging young adults through agency sponsors to work collaboratively with citizens and community organizations will help strengthen relationships, build trust and resolve issues for the well-being of the community.
Public safety organizations must be committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in all aspects of their operations and services. Integrity, fairness, impartiality, courtesy, respect, and compassion are essential character traits. Public safety professionals must be committed to these traits in providing the highest quality services to the community they serve.
Public safety professionals are accountable to the public they serve and are held to a higher standard of conduct than other members of the community. They must reflect the values and virtues of good citizenship in both their personal and professional lives as set forth in their professional code of conduct (i.e., The Law Enforcement Code).
Meetings:
Tuesday nights, from 6 - 8 p.m.
A.P.D. Training Center
6000 W. Pioneer Pkwy., Arlington, TX
South Entrance
Contact:
Lead Mentor:
Officer Thomas McLeod
[email protected]
