How To Go Behind The Scenes With Lubbock Police with These Volunteer Programs

Have you ever thought you might be interested in getting to know the Lubbock Police Department (LPD) a little more by assisting with traffic stops, jail tours, or K-9 demonstrations? Well, there are multiple programs available to volunteers of all ages, 14 and up, that get you hands-on experience with these fascinating protocols that cops handle each and every day!

Let's Start With the Explorer Post Program

One of the most exciting programs offered by LPD is the Explorer Post program designed for young adults interested in a career in law enforcement.

According to the City of Lubbock website, volunteers in the Explorer program "will ultimately obtain an awareness of the complexities of Police service, leadership teamwork, and community involvement."

This program is available to all young adults between the ages of 14 and 20, and opportunities of involvement include traffic law and direction, hostage negotiation, crime scene search, and interview techniques.

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If you're interested in learning more about the Explorer program, you can email explorers@mylubbock.us or call 806-775-2837.

What's the Citizens Academy in Lubbock?

Another volunteer program that LPD offers is the Citizens Academy meant to show the day-to-day activities of sworn police officers.

There are many topics covered in this program, but some highlights include the following:

• Firearms training
• K-9 demonstrations
• Air support
• Homicide and forensics
• Jail tours
• Bomb squad
• Use of force procedures
• Domestic violence

You can see the full list of program topics along with the link to sign up for Citizens Academy on the program's webpage.

What Other Programs Does LPD Provide?

Finally, LPD offers volunteer work in their Crisis Team and Crime Prevention Unit. The Crisis Team is intended to provide on-scene support to officers responding to crisis situations like family violence, suicide, homicide, etc.

All volunteers for the Crisis Team must complete at least 12 hours of classroom training and 40 hours of field experience. They must also complete an 8-hour ride along with a Lubbock officer, according to the program's webpage.

Requirements for this program include volunteers being at least 21 years old, having a Bachelor's Degree in mental health or a related field that handles crisis counseling, and not being convicted of a felony.

The Crime Prevention Unit allows citizens to help protect their neighborhoods by collaborating with LPD and forming watch groups. This is often done through learning personal safety tips, providing security surveys to vulnerable areas, rehearsing active shooter events, and fighting fraud or scam attempts throughout the community.

LPD makes it easy for any citizen to get involved, whether it's for personal growth and responsibility or mere curiosity. Don't be afraid to reach out today!