The Explorer Post 1808 program affords the youth an opportunity to better understand the role law enforcement plays in today’s society. The program acts as a community service organization for anyone interested in a law enforcement career. It also provides its members with invaluable training and experience in leadership, teamwork, and self-confidence. By exposing youth to police work, the Explorer Post is used to attract officers of tomorrow.

The Community Affairs Section hosts and supports Explorer Post 1808. The program is sponsored by Learning For Life of The Boy Scouts of America. The Gwinnett County Police Department provides the training and equipment used by the Explorer post.

The post typically meets three Mondays a month at the Gwinnett County Police Training Center located at 854 Winder Highway in Lawrenceville from 7:00pm to 9:00pm year-round. The meetings consist of classroom lectures and practical exercises similar to the training officers receive. All training is conducted in a controlled environment by qualified department personnel. Training classes include topics such as:

• Criminal and traffic law
• Traffic stops
• Domestic violence
• Investigations
• Crime scene processing
• Defensive tactics

Explorers compete in various law enforcement events throughout Georgia and a national competition in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. These law enforcement competitions give Explorers a chance to apply the training they have received, while competing against other posts.

Because helping the community is a vital role of a police officer, Explorers will be afforded many opportunities to serve and help the public. Explorers have volunteered at events such as Relay for Life, Scout Day, and Dacula Memorial Day Parade. All events are approved by advisors to ensure the safety of Explorers.

Candidates must:

• Be between the ages of 14 and 21. They also must have graduated the 8th grade. There are no exceptions to age requirements.
• Not have a criminal record (Background checks may be performed on all applicants)
• Be interviewed by senior explorers and advisors
• Pay a one-time registration fee of $60 is required at registration

For more information about the program, contact Sgt. Eric Rooks at 770.513.5119 or William.Rooks@GwinnettCounty.com 

Gwinnett County Police Community Affairs Section
3125 Satellite Boulevard
Duluth, GA 30096
770.513.5119