Newtown Police Department is planning an open house for its police cadets program, which has been on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 26, from 6 to 8 pm, at Newtown Police Department 191 South Main Street.

The open house is for all people between the ages of 13 and 21 who are interested in learning about and potentially joining the program. Newtown residency is not required to participate.

Sergeant Matthew Wood and Officer John McDermott have been in charge of the program for three years.

The open house, McDermott said this week, will help parents and those thinking about the program.

“We’re going to provide them with a guided tour, they’re going to have an opportunity to meet with advisors, and they can ask questions about the program,” he said May 19. “We’ll discuss what they can expect going through the program, including the events we partake in such as the Labor Day Parade and the Christmas tree lighting.”

Cadets have long assisted the police department at those events, among others, McDermott said.

The cadets have a longstanding reputation of developing the youth of the community through a hands-on approach toward learning about the law enforcement profession. Through police and civilian advisors, the cadets are introduced to law enforcement by classroom instruction and practical demonstrations.

In addition to learning about police work, the post attempts to challenge participants to perform and meet the high standards of the post. In an effort to develop each person, the program works to instill self respect as well as respect for others, emphasize the importance of teamwork, develop each cadet’s senses of responsibility and accountability, develop leadership skills, and promote citizenship and community service.

Law enforcement education topics include what the police profession encompasses, types of law enforcement, an introduction to the criminal justice system, the basics of patrol procedures, and police ride-alongs.

Participants are introduced to law enforcement through classroom instruction and practical demonstrations.

Cadet requirements include good grades in school, a clean record (no arrests), a respectful demeanor, and good character. The program has zero tolerance for drugs and/or alcohol. It meets year-round.

The group has traditionally met on Wednesday evenings, but McDermott this week said there is flexibility, “depending on what our current cadets and their parents are able to do.”

The program currently has three interested candidates. McDermott said the start date for the next series will be determined once enrollment increases.

“We’re hoping to start sooner than later,” he said.

For additional information contact Sgt Wood or Ofc McDermott at 203-426-5841; Ofc McDermott can also be reached at john.mcdermott@newtown-ct.gov.

======

Associate Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.