The Lacey Township Police Department is pleased to announce our new partnership with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office to bring our young adults the most advanced Public Safety Cadet program available. The Public Safety Cadet program is designed to provide exciting and challenging training, along with “on-the-job” experience for young adults who may be interested in a career in law enforcement. Public Safety Cadets participate in many phases of Law enforcement work, but are NOT placed in dangerous situations. The Public Safety Cadet program is an excellent way to become involved with the community while learning about a possible career in law enforcement! Several Law Enforcement Officers began their careers as Public Safety Cadets.
Partnering with the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department is a win-win for Lacey Township’s young adults, allowing the cadets to be involved in community events throughout Ocean County including Lacey Township. This opportunity allows the public safety cadets to make law enforcement contacts throughout Ocean County and New Jersey, providing them with an inside view of various law enforcement opportunities. Furthermore, partnering with the Sheriff’s Office brings various specialties available to the Public Safety Cadets, including but not limited to, interactions with the K-9 Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Marine Bureau.
REQUIREMENTS
Be 14 to 21 years of age (must enter the program prior to 18th birthday)
Maintain at least a ‘C’ average in all school work through 12th grade
Pass a background investigation (criminal/motor vehicle record)
Complete an oral interview
Maintain outstanding moral and ethical character at all times
Demonstrate willingness to serve and participate in Public Safety Cadet activities and community events
An applicant CANNOT have any arrests, convictions, or serious motor vehicle violations (for example a DUI). Public Safety Cadets will have to display professionalism and good behavior at all times. The Public Safety Cadet must be able to work independently and with other Cadets, Cadet Peer Supervisors, and Law Enforcement Officers. The public will hold Public Safety Cadets to the same high standards as Police Officers.
Public Safety Cadets must attend training three times a month once appointed. The training is conducted by Ocean County Sheriff’s Officers, Lacey Township Police Officers, and additional law enforcement officers, who serve as Public Safety Cadet Advisors.
Applications are currently available at the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, 120 Hooper Avenue, 3rd Floor, in Toms River, and the Lacey Township Police Department, located at 808 W. Lacey Road in Forked River. Applications are also available at the Lacey Township High School Guidance Office, located at 73 Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor. Completed applications can either be submitted to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department or the Lacey Township Police Department. There are no fees involved for the Public Safety Cadet program. For additional information or questions, please contact Detective Sergeant Charles May, at the Lacey Township Police Department (609) 693-6636, ext. 2591, or Ocean County Sheriff’s Detective Christine Farrell at (732) 288-7843.
– Chief Michael C. DiBella