The mission of the Delaware Police Law Enforcement Exploring program is to bridge the gap between youth and police by educating and involving them in police operations and to interest them in Law Enforcement. Exploring is for young men and women 14 to 20 years of age. Exploring can further each Explorer’s education, encourage the Explorer’s participation in a rewarding and productive service activity, and enhance the Explorer’s preparation for future roles as citizen and community members. Besides gaining a working knowledge of police work, the participants have the opportunity to give of themselves to their community.

Who can be an Explorer?

You are eligible to be an Explorer if you are:

• Age 14, and have completed the 8th grade, through age 20.
• You have not been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor.
• You can successfully pass a minimum background check and oral interview.

How do I join the next Explorers program?

Officer Adam Willauer can be reached at 740-203-1100 (ext 2182). Officer Austin Barnthouse can be reached at 740-203-1100 (ext. 2175) or awillauer@delawareohio.net.

What do Explorers do?

Members can learn first-hand how Police Officers do their jobs. Officers and Detectives with special skills are invited to meetings to explain how the Police Department investigates major crimes such as homicides, narcotics violations and gang activity.

Explorer Training

The following listing is an example of some of the activities and training in which the Explorers may participate:

• The history of law enforcement
• Introduction to law enforcement
• Note taking and study habits
• Patrol procedures
• Traffic control
• Accident investigation and forms
• Criminal investigation
• Crime scene investigation
• Vice and narcotics
• Search and arrest procedures
• Defensive weapons
• Custody
• Domestic complaints
• Crowd control procedures

Other Benefits

Being an Explorer offers many opportunities to learn valuable leadership and life skills, make new friends, interact with the public and most of all, have fun!