Department Is Seeking Reserve Police Officers

A training program for those interested in becoming reserve officers for the Simi Valley Police Department begins Tuesday.

The department is seeking 15 people to serve on a volunteer basis, handling duties such as patrol, traffic enforcement, prisoner transportation, missing person searches and special event security.

“They provide a lot of services for the city that free up the patrol officers for more patrol time,” said Lt. Rex Jones. “Reserves transferring prisoners to the Ventura County Jail save the regular officers hundreds of hours each year.”

The department currently has only six reserve officers, who serve without pay and are licensed to carry firearms.

Applicants should be at least 21 with a high school diploma or equivalent certificate, a valid California driver’s license and must pass a background investigation.

The 21-week training program is conducted three evenings a week and all day Saturdays at the Ventura County Police and Sheriff’s Reserve Academy in Camarillo. The fast-paced program places an emphasis on teamwork, discipline, cooperation and academic and physical achievement, Jones said.

Reserve officers work on a regular basis. Uniforms and equipment are provided at no cost.

Registration for the training academy is made through Ventura College. Further registration information can be obtained by calling 654-6400.

For specific information about the reserve officer program, call Jones at 583-6211 or Det. Bob Scannell at 583-6917.

The e-mail address for the reserve academy is www.copquest.com