Teens: Want to Be a Cop Someday?

• Editor's Note: The following is a press release from the Prince William County Police department. It is unedited. 

The Prince William County Police Explorer Post #1268 will hold a recruiting event on Thursday, May 5, 2011, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Forest Park High School, 15721 Forest Park Drive, Woodbridge (22192). There will be a short presentation followed by a Q-and-A session with current Explorers. Refreshments will be served. Young men and women, ages 14 to 21, and their families are welcome to attend.

The Police Explorer program provides youth with the knowledge of the law enforcement function in their community, and it gives them an idea of day-to-day police operations. Involvement in the Police Exploring program establishes an awareness of the complexities of police service.

Police Exploring is a "Learning for Life" career education program which is affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America. It is open to young women and men who are interested in careers in the law enforcement field.

Police Explorers are involved in training sessions twice a month at various locations throughout the County, which familiarize the members with all aspects of law enforcement. This includes patrol and arrest procedures, traffic stops, traffic and criminal law, criminal investigations, crash investigations and firearms safety. The program brings the Explorer into direct contact with members of the Police Department through meetings, observation of our Public Safety Communications Center and the ride-along program.

Dues for the Prince William County Police Explorers are $30 annually; however cost is not a barrier to participation, so all are encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

High school students are encouraged to see their School Resource Officer, or call 703-792- 5590 for more information.

More information and applications are available on the Police Department’s website. Visit www.police.pwcgov.org and search “Law Enforcement Explorers Post #1268.”