Public Safety Cadets

 The Mt. Juliet Police Department has a proud tradition of providing opportunities for local youth to explore and prepare for careers in law enforcement. For over 25 years, programs like Law Enforcement Cadets have offered young people a chance to gain valuable knowledge and skills while fostering leadership and a passion for serving their communities. Many former members of these programs have gone on to become police officers here at the Mt. Juliet Police Department and in agencies across Tennessee. In fact, our very own Deputy Chief Chandler participated in a similar program during his high school years—proof of how impactful these experiences can be in shaping future leaders.

Today, we are excited to be affiliated with the Public Safety Cadets (PSC), a national non-profit organization founded and led by active and retired law enforcement professionals. The PSC program is designed for young adults ages 14 to 20 (until their 21st birthday), providing hands-on education, training, and mentorship to prepare them for careers in public safety. PSC's mission aligns with our own: to build character, leadership, and physical fitness while promoting respect for safe communities and dedication to community service.

We are proud to invest in the next generation of public safety leaders and look forward to seeing what these young cadets will accomplish!

Activities and Opportunities

Cadets receive training in various aspects of law enforcement and have the opportunity to work with officers in various assignments. Cadets can receive additional training in officer safety, arrest, search, traffic control, accident investigation, firearm use and safety, fingerprinting, first aid and CPR, report writing, and crime prevention.

  • Ride-along with patrol officers
  • Attend workshops and seminars on various law enforcement topics
  • Engage in scenario-based training exercises
  • Join community outreach programs and events
  • Compete in local, state, and national Public Safety Cadets competitions

What Cadets Learn

Cadets engage in a variety of educational and practical activities, including:

  • Law Enforcement Procedures: Learn about law enforcement officers' protocols and procedures.
  • Crime Prevention: Understand strategies and tactics to prevent crime and enhance community safety.
  • Physical Training: Participate in physical fitness training to build strength and endurance.
  • Leadership Skills: Develop leadership abilities through team activities and challenges.
  • Community Service: Contribute to the community through volunteer activities and public service projects.
  • Ethics and Integrity: Explore the importance of ethics, integrity, and professionalism in law enforcement.

Who Can Join

The Public Safety Cadets program is open to enthusiastic and motivated youth between 14 and 20 (until their 21st birthday. Whether you have a long-standing interest in a law enforcement career or are simply curious about the field, this program offers a fantastic opportunity to explore and learn.

Benefits of Joining

  • Skill Development: Build essential skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
  • Career Preparation: Gain a head start on a potential law enforcement or public safety career.
  • Networking: Connect with law enforcement professionals and peers who share your interests.
  • Community Impact: Make a positive difference in your community through service and outreach activities.
  • Personal Growth: Enhance your self-confidence, discipline, and leadership abilities.

How to Join

  • Admission into the Cadet program must be initiated by application.
  • Applicants must be a minimum of 14 years old, but not over 19.
  • Applicants will be reviewed by the police records division.
  • Applicants must have the desire and time to participate and perform duties.
  • All applicants are given equal consideration.
  • Applicants are placed on a probationary period of 3-6 months.
  • A "C" average must be maintained in school.

Apply Online


Donate and Support

If you would like to donate to the Cadet program, you have the following options:

Donate Online: PayPal Online Donation

Donate by Check:

Mt. Juliet Police Cadets 406

1019 Charlie Daniels Parkway

Mt. Juliet, TN 37122