The Berks County Sheriff’s Office is looking to recruit young people interested in a career in law enforcement for the 2024 session of its Explorer Post program.
Explorers will participate in a variety of activities and events throughout the year, including community service, leadership conferences, career orientations and a block week simulation. They will also have an opportunity to take educational excursions while acquiring skills needed for a successful career in law enforcement and building a valuable network of contacts.
The program is designed for students between the ages of 14 and 20.
Sheriff Eric Weaknecht brought the national program to Berks in 2012.
He said Explorer Post #27 shows participants what it takes to be a law enforcement officer by offering hands-on training and experience. In addition to learning about what his office does, Explorers will receive information about other law enforcement agencies like the U.S. Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Berks County district attorney’s office and positions related to the judicial system.
Weaknecht said Explorers will also play a key role in his office by assisting in outreach programs and representing the department at outside events.
The post number was selected in honor of Deputy Sheriff Kyle Pagerly, who was killed in the line of duty in June 2011 while serving a felony warrant in northern Berks. Pagerly was enrolled to help start the program before his death.
Applications and more information about the program can be found at co.berks.pa.us/sheriff. All applications are due by the end of December.
Source: Berkshire mont