The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is one of the largest Scouting organizations and one of the largest youth organizations in the United States of America. They have many programs to train youth in responsible citizenship, character development, and self-reliance through participation in a wide range of outdoor activities, educational programs, and, at older age levels, career-oriented programs in partnership with community organizations. Police Exploring is a learning-for-life organization of the BSA and is offered through the Miramar Police Department.
The purpose of this popular group, which is open to young men and women ages 14 to 20, is to build character while providing citizen training and fitness to the youth of America. Besides these great life tools, Police Exploring educates and involves youth in police operations. Regardless of their career choice, the Explorers learn how law enforcement functions in the community and become aware of the complexities of police service.
Police Explorers are in direct contact with members of the Miramar Police Department. They are involved in weekly training sessions which familiarize them with all aspects of law enforcement; including patrol procedures, traffic stops, arrest procedures, traffic and criminal law, criminal investigations, traffic crash investigations and firearms safety. Additionally, during these meetings, they review scenarios that resemble actual calls that police officers handle.
Training is also done so that they can compete in local and state Explorer competitions. In 2018, the Miramar Explorers placed second at States Competition, and are consistently in first place in Broward Competitions. The explorers also volunteer in several areas throughout the city ranging from city events to summer youth programs.
The City of Miramar and other local community organizations call upon the Police Explorers to assist with traffic direction and parking control at events. Police Explorers are not used in assignments requiring police authority but are used to assist the community and police department under the direction and supervision of police department employees.
“The Explorer program has been an integral part of our organization for more than 40 years. Past explorers have been hired by the department and have gone on to become chief of police or other high-ranking members of our agency,” said Chief Dexter Williams. “It’s more than just an instructional program. Our explorers are part of the Miramar Police family.”
- There is no cost to join the program since it’s funded by the Miramar Police Department, The Miramar Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and other local sources. For more information, visit www.miramarpd.org/police-explorers.