The Franklin County Police Cadet Program is a year-round initiative designed to introduce young people to the field of law enforcement while fostering leadership, community service, and personal growth. Launched in April by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the program currently hosts 24 cadets and meets weekly at Greenfield Community College, with additional field trips that enhance hands-on learning. Starting in 2025, the program will run throughout the full calendar year and aims to engage youth countywide in a meaningful, educational experience focused on public safety.
The program’s core mission goes beyond teaching about policing. It centers on three pillars: an introduction to criminal justice, youth development and leadership, and community service. Participants explore a wide range of topics including motor vehicle laws, communication techniques, and the use of K-9 units. The program also places emphasis on professional development, offering resources like resume building, networking, and one-on-one career guidance to prepare cadets for a future in law enforcement or related fields.
Modeled after similar initiatives in Connecticut and supported by the Northeast Regional Law Enforcement Educational Association (NERLEEA), the program has already shown tangible results. Some former cadets have gone on to begin careers in local law enforcement, crediting the program with opening their eyes to the many opportunities in public safety. These outcomes underscore the program’s potential to guide youth into meaningful, long-term service careers.
Inclusivity and accessibility are central to the program’s operation. Open to Franklin County residents aged 14 to 20, it is designed to be financially accessible, with minimal costs covered by donations and fundraising. Local law enforcement departments and volunteers provide oversight and mentorship, ensuring the program remains deeply connected to the community it serves. The program not only offers a path into policing—it builds lasting connections between youth and the public safety professionals in their communities.
