Cadet Program
The Corvallis Police Department maintains a police cadet unit comprised of citizen volunteers to enhance the police-community partnership and provide auxiliary resources in support of policing activities. The program is designed to provide an introduction to law enforcement to those interested in pursuing a career in this rewarding profession. Cadets who desire to continue in the law enforcement profession are encouraged to apply with the Department once they turn 21.
The Corvallis Police Department Cadet Program broadens the capabilities of the Police Department in handling community policing functions, community events, unusual events, natural disasters and other emergencies.
Objectives:
- Instilling an understanding and appreciation of the criminal justice system and the ethics applied in a law enforcement career.
- Develop an understanding of Oregon laws and City ordinances and their application in real-world incidents.
- Create a team-oriented environment that focuses on person and professional development.
- Develop an understanding of the community policing philosophy and the importance of forming partnerships with our community.
Cadet Activities
Ride-Alongs
A ride-along is one of the best ways for a cadet to learn about law enforcement. As a cadet observes and helps their officer, they learn how to use the radio, write reports, and complete forms, among the many other things a police officer does. Once a cadet has the necessary knowledge, they can use the radios, in-car computer, complete forms and help the officer in many other ways.
Training
Cadets complete an initial field training program to build the foundation of law enforcement knowledge. Cadets are required to attend a two week police cadet academy in June, and they may also attend an optional Corvallis Police Department Citizen's Academy, which is one evening a week for 10 weeks. Additionally, they have monthly training sessions on topics like, crime scene processing, criminal investigations, traffic stops, building searches, CPR & first aid, defensive tactics, firearms, vehicle operations and other advanced law enforcement skills.
Tours
Cadets are responsible for guiding tours of the Law Enforcement Building to various community groups, like Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, the citizen's academy and classes from local schools.
Community Events
Cadets represent the Corvallis Police Department at community events, like the Fall Festival, National Night Out, Special Olympics Polar Plunge, and others.
Qualifications:
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements at the time of application:
- Be at least 16 years of age, but not older than 21 years old
- If under 18, applicant will need parental consent
- Be a United States Citizen
- Possess a valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
- Be enrolled in high school or college and have a GPA of at least 2.50
- Pass a background investigation
- Be able to sit, stand, walk and lift for long periods of time in all weather conditions
To continue in the program, a cadet must:
- Volunteer a minimum of 15 hours a month, consisting of a monthly meeting, patrol, training and/or community events
- Ride-along at least one patrol shift each month and attend a monthly meeting
- Maintain a 2.50 GPA
- Obey all Department General Orders, procedures and protocols
- A cadet must resign on their 21st birthday
How to Apply:
Complete an application on line HERE
Applications are also available at the Law Enforcement Building, 180 NW 5th Street, Corvallis, OR.
Cadet Application Process:
- Submit cadet application
- Oral Board Interview
- Background Investigation
- Field Training
Once a cadet is selected, they reach the status of Cadet Trainee and begin the field training program. The field training program is 50 hours of ride-along time spent with an on-duty patrol officer learning about patrol functions, investigations, criminal and traffic law, radio procedures and other patrol officer duties. After a cadet trainee completed the field training program, they are considered a Cadet.
Anyone interested in joining the Cadet Program is encourage to request a ride-along. Applications for a ride-along are available at the Law Enforcement Building, 180 NW 5th Street, Corvallis, OR. They are also available HERE.
Contact Us
Questions about the Cadet Program can be sent to:
Corvallis Police Department Cadet Program
180 NW 5th Street
Corvallis, OR 97330
(541) 766-6924
