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35 Buffalo Police Explorers sworn in by Commissioner Byron Lockwood

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Wed, Mar 17th 2021 09:50 am

Buffalo Police & the law enforcement community attended ceremony

On Tuesday at the Larkin Commerce Center, 35 Buffalo Police Department recruits from the Buffalo Police Explorers (BPE) took their oath led by Buffalo Police Commissioner Byron Lockwood. Officers from the BPD and other dignitaries from the law enforcement community attended the ceremony. 

Buffalo Police Explorers have committed to a 16-week program. The oath ceremony is part of week five. After Tuesday, the explorers will be committed to their mission: “Learn by Doing. Do by Exploring.” Guided by over 30 volunteers from the BPD, the recruits will go through a comprehensive curriculum to meet with critical units within the department, such as K9, underwater recovery and gun violence. They will also have the opportunity to meet with representatives from the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Buffalo City Courts, Buffalo City Hall, Homeland Security and the FBI. They will learn about mental health, CPR and get a first-hand look at the criminal justice system process.

A vital part of the program is giving back to the community. Last fall, explorers and off-duty officers brightened and painted parts of the nonprofit center None Like You. Together, the group also collected and wrapped Christmas gifts for less-fortunate families before the holidays. In addition, they also distributed more than 200 coats to keep Buffalonians warm before the winter.

Officer Joelle Bence, the Buffalo Police Explorers adviser, said participants in the program undergo comprehensive training that creates self-confidence, connection to the community, and a sense of purpose. “The explorers are setting the example on how to lead, build unity, safety and trust in the City of Good Neighbors.”

Lockwood said he was proud and excited to lead the oath ceremony for the Class of 2021. He noted the importance of the Buffalo Police Explorers program: “To get an opportunity to collaborate with local youth from a diverse background is a high priority and a long-term investment for the Buffalo Police Department. These young recruits see firsthand the rewards of being a Buffalo Police officer and the complex environment in which they exist. These learning experiences will not only benefit the Buffalo Police officers and the explorers, but the community overall.”

Buffalo Police Explorers fosters a relationship between BPD officers and youth in the City of Buffalo by providing opportunities that promote leadership, confidence, self-discipline and community service, while developing an awareness of department purpose and objectives of law enforcement. Learn more at buffalopoliceexplorers.com.

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