Explorers

The Anaheim Police Explorer Post is a program for young men and women interested in learning about careers in the field of law enforcement. The program is designed to offer students between the ages of fourteen and twenty one the opportunity to be involved in community activities, make new friends, and gain valuable knowledge.

Explorers attend weekly meetings, where they learn about the many jobs available to them in a classroom environment. Guest speakers from municipal, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies are brought in to explain their jobs. Guest speakers include city patrol officers, K9 Officers, Narcotics Investigators, County Sheriffs, the County Coroner, Highway Patrol Officers and FBI agents.

Anaheim Explorers wear uniforms furnished by the Anaheim Police Department. Although we will purchase the majority of your uniform, you must be willing to purchase a few incidental items at your own expense, including shoes and a flashlight.

Explorers also learn through first-hand "on-the-job" experiences in the field, working non-enforcement related assignments with Police Officers. Our Explorers provide valuable services not only in Anaheim, but to many cities throughout Orange County. Explorers direct traffic at parades, charity runs and other special events. They provide tours of the police facility and provide child safety fingerprinting. Explorers help Officers at scenes of disasters and other major incidents. Anaheim Police Explorers search for missing persons and get involved in countless other community projects.

The City of Anaheim has been fortunate to have one of the largest and strongest Explorer programs in Orange County. Since 1963, thousands of high school and college aged students have served as Anaheim Police Explorers. Many have gone on to work for law enforcement agencies throughout the nation. Those that choose not to enter police work have gone on to be successful in their career choices, having firsthand knowledge of how city government works. They also carry with them life-long friends.

Anaheim Police Explorers attend a live-in Police Explorer Academy with other Orange County Law Enforcement Explorers. Every Explorer must attend at least one academy. Academies are held twice a year, normally at a military base and last approximately 4 days. These training sessions are quasi-militaristic and emphasize education, discipline and physical exercise.

Membership Requirements

Must be between the ages of 14 and 20 (applicants must have completed the 8th grade).
Maintain a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) or higher in high school or college.
Good school attendance.
Have never been arrested.
No previous/current drug use.
Perform physical activities (running, standing, push-ups and sit-ups).

How to Apply for Membership

Applicant must email Officer Cashell (lcashell@anaheim.net) expressing interest in the program.
Attend 5 consecutive meetings as a guest in business casual attire.
Submit an application for membership.
Pass a written test.
Pass an oral interview.
Pass a background investigation.