Pinellas County Sheriff's Office 5th Annual Explorer Academy Graduates Ten

Eleven young men attended the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Fifth Annual Explorer Academy on June 14-18.  Participants who successfully completed a background check arrived each morning prepared to experience the different opportunities law enforcement has to offer. 

Classroom training included an introduction to basic law, Arson and Auto-theft, Internet Crimes, Sexual Predators/Offender Tracking and basic traffic stops instructed by agency members with knowledge in each area of expertise.  Some of the hands-on opportunities included CPR/First Aid training and Firearms Safety.  A familiarization session teaching the proper care and handling of the agency issued semi-automatic firearm was a highlight of that day.  Deputies assigned to the Detention and Corrections Bureau provided additional instruction on the nuances of a career in the detention environment.  This session culminated in a tour of the Pinellas County Jail.  Crime Scene technicians also provided crime scene instruction accompanied by a tour of the Forensic Science Facility.  Recruits also had the opportunity to tour the Sheriff’s Office Flight Section and the Central District Station including both the Vehicle and Communication Maintenance Sections providing a well rounded view of careers available in law enforcement.  

Exploring is a program that emphasizes not only good physical conditioning, but also proper educational preparation.  Recruits participated in daily “PT” and were given the chance judge their skill level during the Physical Abilities Test (PAT) which is expected of all certified law enforcement officers in Florida.  Recruits enjoyed fun and friendly quizzing games that stress the importance of their academic success as well.

Members of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Executive Staff attended a brief graduation ceremony on Friday afternoon to recognize the accomplishments of these young men.  Ten recruits were invited to join Post 900 in September 2010.