Police Explorer Post Holds Awards Banquet

Members of the Sidney Police Department Explorer Post held its awards banquet recently, recognizing members who have excelled. Also recognized was businessman Sean Doyle for his commitment to the community.

Doyle, owner of Cedar Lanes, has hosted two major police department events this past year - the 2018 Shop With a Cop gathering, and the Explorer Awards Banquet. For that support, the Explorer Post #607 presented him the Community Action Award.

The Community Action Award is given out every year by the Sidney Police Explorer Post and recognizes a local business or business owner for their valuable support of the Police Explorer Post, Sidney Police Department, and Community.

The Explorers also recognized five of their own for excellence in a number of areas. Those recognized included:

Explorer of the Year: Jared Luptak

Academic Excellence Award: Brennan Andrew

Physical Fitness Award: Tristan Ahrendt

Most Inspirational: Carlos Lucero

Military Service Recognition: Michael Tobler

The Sidney Police Explorer Post #607 was founded in 2017, and is lead by Officer Austin Smith.

The Explorer Post is for young adults ages 14-21 interested in pursuing Law Enforcement careers or having a general interest in Law Enforcement. Explorers provides young people the opportunity to partake in a number of hands-on and class room training opportunities.

Smith said training opportunities cover many aspects of police training, including traffic stops, criminal investigations, evidence collection, and radio communications. As Police Explorers they are allowed to do Police ride-alongs, help with and participate in Police training, and are trained in CPR and First Aid.

The Sidney Police Explorers helped with many community events throughout 2018. They assisted with traffic and other needs at the Octoberfest Parade, Parade of Lights, Cheyenne County Fair and Rodeo, and other community events.

That training, Smith said, helps young people as they move toward careers in law enforcement. It gives them a first hand look at the demands and skills of the job so they know if it will be a fit. After that, when they begin the application process, they have the experience through training that is recognized by departments.

"When they begin to get into law enforcement and training, it's not the first time they've seen things," Smith said. "They have a good idea of what to expect."

Sidney's Explorer Post #607 had seven members - five in high school, two who have gone on to college.

The program is open to anyone that fits the age requirements and is interested in a career in Law Enforcement. The Explorer Post is a not-for-profit organization and runs on donations with Officers donating time to work with members. Anyone interested in donating to the Sidney Police Explorer Post can do so in person at the Police Department.

Any interested applicants, or parents that would like to know more info, can call Officer Smith at 308-254-7846 or email him at [email protected]