The Sheriff’s Cadet program, established in 1973, is a career orientation program that offers interested young men and women between the ages of 14 and 21 the opportunity to experience the law enforcement profession first hand. Cadets Ride-Along Program with deputies on patrol, assist Detectives, observe the operations of the County’s public safety Communications center, and work in the Boulder County Jail. Through their voluntary participation in the program, they are able to make an informed decision as to whether or not they wish to pursue the profession as a career.
In addition to their participation in the day-to-day Operations of the Sheriff’s Office, Cadets are frequently called upon to provide assistance at a variety of public safety and/or public relations programs: traffic control at parades, presentations at Neighborhood Watch and school safety programs, and participation in community fairs, events, and demonstrations. Professional law enforcement training is provided, along with opportunities to attend a Cadet Law Enforcement Academy and local and national conferences, seminars, and competitions.
Applications for the Cadet program are accepted and processed year-round. Candidates for appointment must be at least 14 years of age, maintain a “C” average if enrolled in school, be in good health, and be of upright moral character. Candidates for appointment must submit a written application and attend two meetings before their application will be processed. A criminal history, driving history, and reference checks will be conducted prior to scheduling an interview with the program staff. Felony convictions are an automatic bar to membership; any other arrests will be reviewed critically.
Following probationary appointment, the Cadet recruit is expected to successfully complete a period of training, designed to acquaint them with the operations of the Sheriff’s Office. Following the successful completion of the training regimen, the recruit is appointed to full Cadet status and is provided with a uniform. Cadets are expected to commit at least 16 hours each month to the program, including attendance at bi-weekly business and training meetings (held on the first and third Tuesday of each month).
Contacts
Cadet Post #500
Sergeant Yaffe
303-441-3981
