What is the Explorer Program?

The Tehama County Sheriff’s Explorer Scout program is a youth oriented program affiliated with the regional and national organizations of the Boy Scouts of America. It’s primary purpose is to provide, through actual experience, a means by which young men and women may determine if they would like to pursue a career in law enforcement.

The program gives young adults an opportunity to “explore” the law enforcement career field. The Explorer Program is operated by the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office with support from all Tehama County law enforcement agencies.

Explorers not only work with officers from the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office, but also works actively with the Red Bluff Police Department, the Corning Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the California Department of Fish and Game.

One goal is to provide young adults with “hands-on” experiences they may not otherwise get in a traditional educational setting. Another goal of the program is to encourage young adults to become more involved in the community they live in. By participating in the Explorer Program, young adults will not only be providing a valuable service to their community, but they will also be saying “no” to alcohol and drugs, staying out of trouble, maintaining good grades, and becoming a positive member of society.

Participation & Training

Young adults who participate in the Explorer Program receive experience in the following areas:

  • Ride-a-longs with officers on patrol
  • Working in the jail
  • Learning California laws
  • Orientation of various jobs in the law enforcement field
  • Learning dispatch procedures and radio codes
  • Writing skills
  • Investigation and evidence techniques
  • Camping, group outings, and fun trips
  • Regional, State, and National Explorer meetings and conferences

Requirements

All males and females meeting the following requirements are encouraged to apply now:

  • 14 to 21 years of age
  • Live in Tehama County
  • Currently attending school, have graduated high school, or have a G.E.D.
  • Must have good moral character
  • Must not have been convicted of any felony or serious misdemeanor crime
  • Must not be on any type of law enforcement probation or academic probation

Selection Process

All males and females meeting the following requirements are encouraged to apply now:

  • Complete an Explorer Application
  • Appear before an Explorer Post membership committee for an oral interview
  • Complete a background investigation prior to appointment

Additional Information

Each Explorer will be on a one (1) year probation period before being given full membership. During this time, you must complete a minimum of 48 hours of jail duty before participating in the patrol ride-a-long program. You will also need to pass a radio code test with a satisfactory score determined by the Sheriff’s Office.

Each Explorer is also required to purchase and maintain a regulation uniform. The regulation uniform consists of Department approved shirt, tie, pants, leather belt, and black shoes or boots. Additional leather gear is optional.

The average price for the required uniform ranges from $125 to $150. This cost is not reimbursable.

Applications

Applications may be obtained at the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office located at 22840 Antelope Blvd., Red Bluff, CA 96080 Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Explorer Post 120 Application

You may also obtain an application from any Explorer Post #120 member or download an application and bring it to the Tehama County Sheriff office.