Great Falls Police Department | Community | Compassion | Courage
The Police Department is visible in the Community: GFPD cars in the Police Officers Memorial Day Parade

Explorer Program Information

[ A group of Explorers pose on the edge of a cliff during an outing ]

Qualifications

  • 14-21 years old
  • minimum "C" GPA
  • good physical condition
  • an interest in law enforcement and
  • a wiliness to serve the community of Great Falls
  • strong morale and good values
  • an ability to work with others.

Upon acceptance in the Great Falls Police Explorers, one takes on the title of "Probation Explorer." After three months the candidate may receive the title of Explorer.

Meetings

Meetings are normally held twice a month, the 2nd and 4th Tuesday at the police station from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Special events such as the Montana State Fair also a big part of our program.

[ Three Explorers at a Social Function ]

Chain of Command

  • Capt Anthony Fischer
  • Lt Tim Staple
  • Sgt Shaun Chamberlain

Explorer Advisor

  • Master Patrol Officer Jim Kizer

Associate Advisors

  • BJ Nutter
  • Ryan Carpenter

Work Details

The Explorer program is a volunteer program. Volunteer hours are given as Explorers for such events as the Montana State Fair, Peak Triathlon, and Riverfest.

Rewards and Scholarships

One of the biggest thrills about being an Explorer is the opportunity to go on a ride-a-long with actual police officers while they work. Explorers are right there next to the officers in their patrol car and get to see all the action as it happens. This is no "COPS", it's the real thing. Get in the car, strap in, and hold on. You never know what will happen while you're on patrol in the City of Great Falls. This is true behind the scene action -- up close and personal.

Rank advancement and personal recognition are encouraged for all Explorers. Skills in many police related fields can be obtained.

Even though this is a volunteer program, monies earned by the Explorers go back to the program to help pay for all of their activities. Most activities that the Explorers take part in are free to the Explorers.

Competitions

Competitions are held periodically against other police Explorer posts. The competitions test the skill level of Explorers in areas such as: building searches, foot pursuits, driving skills, felony stops, drug raids, and drill team just to name a few. GFPD Explorers competed in Flagstaff Arizona in the National Competitions in 2006 and plan to compete in Denver in 2008.

Social Events

Social events and fun activities are done as a reward for all of the work that is produced. The annual Christmas party is an example of a fun activity GFPD Explorers participate in.