Cadet Unit
The cadet unit provides a means of diverting certain non-emergency calls for service from the beat officer to police cadets for completion. These calls do not require the presence of a sworn officer at the scene. Cadets may handle these calls either by phone or by appointment; whichever provides more convenience to the complaint or victim. This system of handling lower calls for service provides more patrol coverage for the citizens by permitting beat officers to respond to higher priority and emergency calls in a more timely manner.
Cadet Employment Requirements and Benefits
- Cadets are to be 18 years of age or above.
- The applicant must be a Western Kentucky University student or enroll at the University in the following semester if hired.
- The cadets are required to work for 20 hours per week as scheduled by the cadet supervisor.
- The applicant must pass a background check and successfully complete an oral interview to be considered for employment.
Applicants that complete the process and are hired by the police department receive
- Base salary for the cadet position as determined by the city pay scale.
- Paid holidays off.
- Four hours vacation per month.
- Four hour sick leave per month.
- Up to ½ tuition textbook reimbursement for up to 12 hours per fall and 12 hours per spring semester at Western Kentucky University.
- Issued uniforms for the position.
In order to maintain employment, cadets must continue full-time enrollment at Western Kentucky University. Cadets must be willing to sign an agreement with the city that specifies requirements for tuition.
Cadet Assignment and Duties
Cadets are scheduled for 20 duty hours per week. - The cadet Unit’s hours are determined by supervision based upon peak times for calls for service.
- Cadets may also be reassigned from cadet duties at the discretion of the supervisor to perform other duties as needed.
- Cadet duties consist of but are not limited to reception duties, parking enforcement, park ranger duties, speed trailer deployment, pawn ticket details and filling in for school crossing guards.
