Our cadet program in fully staffed right now, but you can still submit an application to be notified when spots become available

Public Safety Cadet Logo featuring a four-quadrant shield with icons for law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, and dispatch.

Public Safety Cadet Program

Mission Statement

The West Des Moines Police Department Public Safety Cadet program is dedicated to educating young people about law enforcement through schooling and hands-on trainings that promote self-confidence, leadership development, life skills, and community service.

Qualifications

  • Aged 14 to 20 years old.
  • Currently enrolled in high school or college.
  • Willing to complete a background check.
  • Able to attend meetings twice a month and participate in community service projects every three months.

What do Cadets do?

From September through May, Cadets meet at the Police Department on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. During the summer, we meet once a month.

Meetings include classroom lessons and hands-on activities, such as:

  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Traffic Stops & Firearms Safety
  • Defensive Tactics
  • First Aid and CPR
  • Report Writing
  • Crime Prevention
  • Community Policing
  • VirTra Training Simulator

Community & Ride-Alongs

Community engagement is a major part of our program. Beyond our quarterly service projects, Cadets have many chances to volunteer for public safety events.

After a six-month probationary period, Cadets can participate in our ride-along program. This allows you to spend two hours a month working directly alongside a police officer on duty.

If you are interested in joining the West Des Moines Public Safety Cadet Program, please complete the application form below to get started.

  1. To receive a copy of your submission, please fill out your email address below and submit.
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