The Boston Police Department (BPD) is putting out a call for young Bostonians to join the ranks of its law enforcement team through the Cadet Program, with the goal of not just beefing up the force but also of infusing it with individuals versed in its community policing model, in an announcement made earlier this month.
For those between the ages of 18 and 25 who carry a high school diploma or GED and have been residing in Boston for at least the past two years, there is an open invitation to apply. The program also requires candidates to hold a valid Massachusetts Driver's License and to boast a good driving record, in a bid to ensure that applicants are already bound to the city they aim to serve and protect. This ties into the larger strategy of fostering deeper connections between the force and the community.
According to the BPD announcement, successful enrollment in the BPD Cadet Program comes with various perks, including a starting salary of $33,226, dental and health benefits, paid annual vacation, sick leave, and potential overtime earnings. Cadets will undergo comprehensive classroom training and on-the-job instruction to prepare for the dynamic challenges of a law enforcement career in Boston's unique urban environment.
During the tenure of the cadetship, which spans two years, the cadets will not merely shadow police work but also be embedded throughout BPD's districts and headquarters. This experience will entail active participation in community engagement activities and offer an opportunity to connect with citizens and visitors alike, alongside the exposure to the daily operations and functions of the BPD.
The department underscores a special incentive for those who see themselves donning the badge full-time after the program's completion: cadets will receive preference when it comes to the list of eligible candidates for a police recruit class; however, this is contingent upon them finishing the program and clearing the Civil Service Police Exam, as stated in the BPD announcement.
