KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Teenagers interested in learning more about law enforcement have an opportunity to see what it’s like to be a Kissimmee police officer through its Explorer youth program.
With a new police chief and updated policies, the Kissimmee Police Department (KPD) says it’s focused on showing the community it remains committed to serving and protecting.
Captain Michael Tilton, who oversees the department’s community engagement unit and has served 28 years with the force, believes the department is on the right path.
“Moving forward, onward, and upward is the best thing that I can say. We definitely are moving in the right direction. I am 100% convinced,” Tilton said.
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Over the past year, several high-ranking members resigned or were fired following an investigation by the Orange-Osceola County state attorney.
As the department moves forward, Tilton is confident it will continue building trust through initiatives like the Explorer Program.
“We’re here to basically look out for the best interests of the community, to show professionalism, to basically be a role model for the kids that we’re bringing into the explorer program. To gain the trust and respect of the community that we serve,” he said.
The program is designed for 14- to 21-year-olds and offers a look at life at KPD and what it means to serve the community.
“They get to exchange information with law enforcement officers, and they get to have a lot of fun and do some real law enforcement training,” Tilton explained.
While school resource officers build bonds with students in schools, the Explorer Program takes it a step further by creating connections outside the classroom.
“Most kids who go to elementary, junior high, or high school in the city of Kissimmee know their school resource officer. This takes it one step further, where not only are they seeing them in a school where they’re seeing the officers in a school setting, they’re coming to the police department and seeing the way that we train,” Tilton said.
To apply, you must meet the following requirements:
• Be between 14 and 21 years old
• Sustain at least a 2.0 GPA
• Be in good standing with local law enforcement
Registration ends on Aug. 15.
For more information, click here.