FULLERTON : Police Department Seeks Youth Scouts

The Police Department is looking for youths 14 to 21 to serve as Explorer Scouts and help the department with crowd control, fingerprinting and other duties.

The program is designed to teach young people about police work and help them consider law enforcement careers.

Officer Dave Knecht, who coordinates the program, said the volunteer Scouts direct traffic and keep order at area festivals, parades and other public events. Knecht said Fullerton Scouts also will work in other neighboring cities, such as Anaheim, to help at large events.

Explorer Scouts also meet Monday nights for about two hours to learn about police work, Knecht said. The young people learn about officer safety, detective work and anti-narcotics programs, he said.

At a three-day Explorer Academy, the Scouts will learn some of the things that are taught at a police academy, Knecht said.

He said eight females and eight males are currently in the program. As many as 25 youths have participated at a time, he said. Students in the program must maintain a C average or better in school.

To become involved, contact the Community Services Bureau of the Police Department at 237 W. Commonwealth Ave. or call Knecht at (714) 738-6835.