Most participants have the opportunity to learn a wide range of interactive environments including patrol operations, investigation, custody facilities, records/technology, and administrative services. Explorers are given the chance to work side-by-side with a full time Deputy Sheriff while he/she works a beat on patrol.
There are also many interesting and exciting special units with their own unique responsibilities. Explorers who have learned the basics and earn a position of responsibility often become involved in training and response by the following highly specialized units:
DIVE & SWIFT WATER RESCUE TEAM
SPECIALIZED WEAPONS AND TACTICS TEAM (SWAT)
CANINE UNIT (Dogs & their Handlers)
MOUNTED POSSE UNIT (Horse/Equestrian)
CORONER'S OFFICE (Death Investigations)
AIR SUPPORT UNIT (Fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters)
HONOR GUARD (Ceremonial Unit for Special Events)
IDENTIFICATION & CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION UNIT
EXPLORER POST #226
The Stanislaus County Sheriff's Explorer Program is designed to introduce teens and young adults to the various opportunities available in the field of law enforcement. Our post is chartered by the Boy Scouts of America and is coordinated by members of Sheriff Adam Christianson's staff.
HOW DO I QUALIFY?
The Sheriff has developed the Explorer Program for young men and women between 16 and 21 years old who have a serious interest in the law enforcement career field.Continuing your education is a must for everyone intereste4d in the program. Applicants must be enrolled in high school or college and be in good academic standing. You must maintain a 2.0 grade point average (GPA). College students are required to be enrolled in at least 9 credit units. The Sheriff's Department will require education verification on a regular basis.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I APPLY?
Once you apply for an Explorer position, you will be evaluated in an informal oral-board interview. We ask questions about your interests, education and why you'd like to become a member of the Explorer team. If you are successful with your interview, a limited criminal background investigation will be conducted to make sure you have a clean record.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Explorers are required to attend regularly scheduled meetings as directed by the Explorer Program Coordinator. These meetings are typically held on the weekends, once a month, at the Sheriff's Department on Hackett Road. These meetings are mandatory attendance.There is a six (6) month probationary period for all new Explorers accepted into the program.
Explorers do not carry weapons or engage in direct law enforcement activities. They do not carry handguns, batons, pepper spray or other less than lethal weapons. Explorers are not peace officers and are not authorized to make arrests. The primary goal of an Explorer is to observe and learn from trained professionals in our agency. New Explorers are required to spend their first 48 hours working in the jail before they are eligible to ride with a deputy on patrol.
For your convenience an printable INTEREST FORM has been provided for you to fill out and mail in to receive more information.
Fill out this Interest Form and Mail or Drop it by the:
- STANISLAUS COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
- Attn: Explorer Program Coordinator
- 250 E. Hackett Road
- Modesto, Ca. 95358
Or
- Call (209) 525-7114
- and ask for the Explorer Program Coordinator.
