The Oceanside Police Department Explorer Program is designed for responsible young men and women to explore all aspects of law enforcement. They interact directly with working field officers, supervisors, and support staff, to expand their interest in law enforcement as a career. Explorers also have the opportunity to participate in a week-long law enforcement Explorer academy and weekend events held over the course of the year.

Explorer candidates must meet rigid standards to qualify for participation in the program. A complete records and background check is conducted during the application process, and personal references are contacted.

The Explorer program has five areas of emphasis:

• Career Opportunities - Develop contacts that may broaden employment options.
• Life Skills - Develop positive social interaction and physical and mental fitness.
• Citizenship - Encourage the skill and desire to help others through community service.
• Character Education - Learn to make ethical choices and decisions.
• Leadership Experience - Acquire leadership skills to fulfill one’s societal responsibilities.

Recruiting occurs each December. However, emails showing interest in the program can be sent year-round to the Explorer coordinator named below. You will be notified of the date of the next orientation meeting, usually in early December.

Minimum qualifications:

• An applicant must be between 16 and 20 years of age and have completed the 8th grade.
• Enrolled in or received a high school diploma or GED certificate.
• If enrolled in high school, maintain at least an overall “C” average.
• Ability to commit to at least 10 hours per month or 30 hours per quarter of service. This may be accomplished through regularly scheduled meetings, ride-a-longs, performing office work, training, and special events.

If you want to join the Oceanside Law Enforcement Explorer Program, please email your contact information and a brief message to Ryan Malone at RMalone@oceansideca.org or (760) 435-4537.