Explorer Requirements

Definition

Under general supervision, they perform non-hazardous patrol, corrections, crime scene investigations, or communications-related duties. Explorers do not have police power.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Explorers may be assigned to any one of the LVMPD’s area commands, the Clark County Detention Center, the Criminalistics Bureau or the Communications Bureau, and work various special events related to their area of assignment. They will be expected to volunteer a minimum of 20 hours per month, and attend a one-week Academy. Explorers will receive mileage reimbursement to cover traveling to and from work.

Each Explorer will be required to:

• Complete a one-week Academy
• Volunteer a minimum of 20 hours each month
• Attend weekly or bi-weekly meetings
• Maintain and wear a uniform, and pass inspection by officers
• Separate from the Explorer Post upon his/her 21st birthday
• Be willing to submit to a background check and investigation, and a drug test

Minimum Qualifications

Training/Education
Currently attending high school, graduated or have obtained a General Education Diploma (GED). Must have or maintain a “C” average or above in school and be a student in good standing (no recent suspensions or expulsions).

Age
Must be between 16 and 20 years of age.
Minor applicants must have parental approval, which includes signatures by the applicant and his/her parents or guardians on a general liability release and medical waiver forms.

U.S. Citizenship
Be a U.S. citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident Alien.

Physical Characteristics
Must meet Departmental Medical Standards for volunteer positions.

Other
Must possess good moral habits with no arrest or conviction records for serious offenses, or multiple minor offenses. Shall be neat and clean in their appearance in public, whether in or out of uniform. (See the Department's Personal Appearance Policy)

Essential and Marginal Functions

Learn the duties and procedures of LVMPD officers. This includes being taught how to conduct car stops, conduct building searches, handcuff suspects, perform patrol activities, use a firearm, apply traffic laws, to name a few.

Learn the duties and procedures of the different LVMPD Explorer posts – Patrol, Communications, Corrections, and Crime Scene Investigations.

Understand how different parts of the LVMPD function together. To do this, Explorers are taught how the Clark County and city jails are operated and how K-9, Air Support, the Gang Unit, SWAT, Communications, and other LVMPD functions are used in conjunction with patrol. This normally includes giving Explorers a chance to tour various facilities.

Compete with different Explorer Posts from police departments across the United States. Each year Explorers are given the chance to travel to different cities to attend Law Enforcement Exploring Conferences as well as to compete with other Explorers in law enforcement-related scenarios.

Develop leadership skills, self-confidence, maturity and discipline. Explorers are given the chance to advance in rank by testing for the positions of Explorer Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain for the police and corrections posts, and Director for the civilian posts. With each rank/title attained, the Explorers are challenged by being put in a leadership role within the program. Explorers also must maintain a uniform and pass inspection by officers.

Participate in community activities. As part of their membership requirements, Explorers are called upon by departments and community organizations to help facilitate events and gatherings, such as National Night Out, First Tuesday Open Houses, and Academy graduations, among others.

Exemplify the LVMPD values, both on and off duty.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ability to:

• Further the Department's vision, mission, goals and values
• Be reliable, punctual and professional
• Travel to and from their area of assignment(s)
• Maintain good mental and physical health

Working Conditions

Environmental Conditions (Various)

• Office
• Inclement and extreme weather conditions when working outdoors
• Urban and rural driving and road conditions when traveling to different work sites
• Possible elevated risks and discomforts which require extra safety precautions or strict adherence to safety instructions

Physical Conditions

• Vision sufficient to read the computer screen, as well as fine print in documents.
• Hearing sufficient to hear conversations and directions in person, over the telephone, or over the radio.
• Dexterity and mobility sufficient to operate standard office equipment; climb ladders and stairs; and operate motorized equipment, if needed.
• Agility sufficient to twist, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach forward, and reach overhead.
• Endurance sufficient to sit at personal computer terminals; stand and move around while working indoors or outdoors; and/or wear a mask, if needed.
• Strength sufficient to lift and carry moderately heavy items up to 25 lbs.