Lewiston Police Department to host informational meeting on Explorers program

As a new school year approaches, the Lewiston Police Department announced it would host an informational meeting on plans for the Police Explorer Post for 2023-24.

The post, which has been in existence since 1996, serves as an introduction to law enforcement for young men and women ages 14 to 20. It is sponsored in conjunction with WNY Scout Council. Members of the post have an opportunity to learn and train alongside officers of the Lewiston Police Department and learn all aspects of the job they perform.

This year’s Explorer Post is scheduled to begin Oct. 3 and will culminate with graduation on April 16, 2024. Some of the topics covered throughout the year will include physical training, defensive tactics, traffic control, CPR/AED, basic first aid, firearms and range safety, and the handling of routine police calls for service and traffic stops.

Explorer members will have the opportunity to tour the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office dispatch operations and county jail, and attend meetings with area law enforcement agencies such as New York state DEC officers, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, along with various local and federal agencies. The Explorers will also participate in presentations by numerous police specialty teams, such as the K9 unit, dive teams, crime scene unit and SWAT. Explorers ages 16 years and older who have completed specific aspects of the training will be afforded opportunities to “ride along” with officers on patrol.

“The Explorers learn attributes such as responsibility, respect and a good work ethic. They are involved with community events and, at times, assist patrol officers at local festivals and concerts,” LPD officer John Penzotti said.

Applications can be picked up/submitted during office hours: 8 a.m. to noon, and 1-4 p.m. weekdays at the LPD office, 4059 Creek Road, on the Lewiston-Porter campus; or email [email protected] to receive a copy.

The application deadline is Monday, Aug. 28. For more information, call the Lewiston Police Department at 716-754-8477.