The Ventura Police Department (VPD), in partnership with Boy Scouts of America, is proud to announce the launch of its Explorer Program for Ventura residents.
Ventura’s Police Explorer Program is designed for youth, ages 14-18, who are interested in learning about a career in law enforcement. The program is taught by VPD staff and officers who provide hands-on activities and interactive learning sessions about local police operations.
As an explorer, students will participate in patrol ride-alongs, accident investigations, defensive tactics, evidence collection and processing, community service, and much more.
“We want to build strong, trusting, and lasting relationships with our youth. This unique hands-on program helps build positive experiences between our explorers and our staff,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “By making connections early and offering an inside look at our agency, it is my hope that we will inspire young men and women to pursue a career with us as Ventura Police Officers.”
Developing an explorer program with representation from each of Ventura’s seven districts was an initiative identified in VPD’s 2020-2023 Strategic Plan.
To be eligible for the Ventura Police Explorer Program students must:
- Be a graduate of the eighth grade and be between the ages of 14-18 years old
- Live or attend a high school in the city of Ventura
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Maintain a good driving record – if applicable
- Pass a criminal background check and an applicant screening process
- Be of good moral character and not engage in the use of drugs or alcohol
- Have an interest in learning about law enforcement and in serving the community
- Attend two meetings per month
To learn more about the program and the application, please visit www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/ExplorerProgram.
