Applications Open for Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Program

(KNSI) — The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office is currently accepting applications for its Explorer Program.

The Explorer program is open to individuals between the ages of 15 and 20 who are interested in careers in public safety, including law enforcement, dispatch, and corrections. It offers training and career guidance to those interested in pursuing careers in public safety fields. Participants receive instruction in standard law enforcement procedures, report writing, defensive tactics, and arrest protocols. The program also includes CPR and Basic First Aid certification, as well as training in dispatch operations and jail facility procedures.

Explorers also have the opportunity to compete in local, state, and national competitions where they apply their training in reality-based scenarios alongside other Explorer groups from across the country. Members volunteer their services at community events, providing help with security, first aid, and traffic control. The program also offers ride-along opportunities with officers and a chance to sit in with dispatchers.

The group has a weekly meeting schedule during the academic year and holds periodic meetings throughout the summer.

An informational meeting is scheduled for Sunday, August 17th at 6:00 p.m. at the Stearns County Law Enforcement Center, located at 807 Courthouse Square in St. Cloud.

Those interested in learning more about the program may contact SheriffExplorer@stearnscountymn.gov for additional information.

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