Explorer Program

Explorers attend regularly scheduled meetings, provide security and traffic control for events like Fiesta Topeka, Spirit of Kansas Blues Fest (4th of July), dignitary visits and other public events and parades. Explorers who are 16 or older may qualify to participate in TPD’s ride-along program with TPD law enforcement officers. Explorers also attend competitions where they compete against explorer posts from around the U.S. in law enforcement events. Occasionally, explorers may be called to assist in searches for evidence, missing persons, victims of crimes and natural disasters.

TPD Explorer Post 7721 operates under at 501(c)3 and conducts frequent fundraisers to keep the cost low for Explorers. Uniforms and equipment are provided by the Topeka Police Department. Yearly charter fees are paid for by the nonprofit. Travel costs and registration fees for competition events are paid for, while Explorers are responsible for meals and other minor expenses. Scholarship opportunities are available for any out-of-pocket expenses.

Any time a person puts on a uniform that associates them with a law enforcement organization, they are putting themselves at risk. Explorers have a TPD officer overseeing them at any event they participate in. Explorers who participate in ride-alongs are required to wear protective vests and all projects are monitored by dispatch. High priority is given to minimizing the Explorer’s risk.

Explorers go through a 8-week Explorer Basic Training Course where they receive training in arrest and search techniques, legal aspects of law enforcement, building searches, traffic stops, field interviews, domestic violence investigations and more. After completion of that course, Explorers receive training in most areas of law enforcement including traffic control, crisis intervention, mental health assistance, emergency management, explosive searches, crime prevention, community policing, traffic accident investigations, first-aid, CPR and officer safety to prepare them for ride-alongs and Explorer competitions.

The TPD Explorer Program is intended to offer a positive outlet for young adults to learn about the law and their rights as well as explore a career in law enforcement. Explorers get to have fun days where they get to do a fun activity of their choosing and share a meal with their fellow Explorers. Every other year the program takes Explorers to the National Law Enforcement Explorer Conference which has been held all over the U.S. where Explorers get to compete and explore the city. There are also training camps sponsored by different agencies in Kansas. In addition to the law enforcement experience and training associated with the Explorer Program, Explorers also get experience in fundraising, event coordinating, community service, and many more skills that can transfer to the next steps for any young adults who want to challenge themselves and have fun.