Students learn the law in Police Explorers Program

The runs one of the most active Police Explorers Programs in the county.

With 19 members, the program fosters law enforcement discovery for members ages 14-21.

According to the explorer website, "Since the post's inception in 1982, 34 explorers have gone on to careers in law enforcement with various agencies, including 14 with the Marlboro Township Police Department."

The explorers program helps with events around the town, directing traffic, parking and keeping residents safe in large crowds.

“Our main function are the events,” said Sgt. Steve Levy. “We are one of the most active posts in Monmouth County, so sometimes other towns will call us for help as well.”

The explorers is set up with line officers, members with seniority.

“We are set up like a regular police department,” Levy said.

Members are expected to keep a minimum GPA of a C, and must show report cards at the end of every marking period. If the GPA drops below the requirement, members are asked to take a break from the explorers and focus on school.

New members are put on a six month probation period, during which they complete hours in the dispatch center. They also need to attend an academy, such as the Police Athletic League Academy, which focuses on teaching attendees about things like routine traffic stops. Members will be certified in CPR and First Aid at the academy.

Every other year, the explorers attend a national conference. Last year, the group won second place in Atlanta, GA for traffic stops.

“It was the first time we ever won an award at a national conference,” Levy said.

When members turn 16, they are eligible to participate in a police ride-along.

Levy said, “You’re in the car doing their tour of duty.”

However, if a situation is dangerous, officers accompanied by explorers will not be dispatched to the scene.

The Police Explorers try to have fun as well, planning social events for members throughout the year. In the past, they have visited Great Adventure, Hershey Park, and enjoyed some laser tag.

“We don’t want it to be all business, we try to have some social functions as well,” Levy said.

To join the explorers, interested can e-mail Levy at slevy@marlboropd.org.