The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) is currently accepting applications for its reserve constable program.
The department currently has 13 reservists and hopes to add another 12 to 15.
The application process takes place every two years, and this year’s deadline is Aug. 1.
Reserve constables are sworn, trained volunteers who are given “limited peace officer” status.
Their primary focus is community policing and crime prevention. They also perform traffic duties, assist at special events, aid police officers in a variety of training capacities, participate in ride-alongs, and assist in other duties as required.
Successful candidates must complete the Reserve Constable Training Program.
This year’s training is anticipated to start in October and end in February, with classes held two nights a week from 6 to 10 p.m. and every other Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Candidates study legal issues, crime prevention, traffic, professionalism and ethics, communication tactics, and self-defence training.
They must write two provincial exams, conducted by the Justice Institute of BC, and score a minimum of 70 per cent on each.
Candidates are asked to make a commitment of two years and a minimum of 12 hours per month.
The two-page application form and other details on the application process are available on the APD website (abbypd.ca) under the “careers” link.