Youth Cadets


If you’re a high school student in Sarasota County and considering a law enforcement career, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Explorer program might be a good place for you to start! We explore the world of law enforcement and expose our Explorers to the many facets of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) and familiarize them with the realities and rewards of a career in our profession. As the Explorers interact with the dedicated personnel of the SCSO, they directly experience what it means to compassionately serve others above self while gaining firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing our deputies. These positive experiences have readied former Explorers for careers at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

Our meetings are held Monday evenings, 6:00-9pm at the SCSO headquarters building, 6010 Cattleridge Blvd., Sarasota.

There are no fees, costs, or expenses, however, the Explorers are periodically called upon to assist the Sheriff's Office and other agencies with special events. This “sweat equity” arrangement allows the Explorers to assist SCSO personnel with a variety of activities, programs, and projects, while giving back to the community.

The Explorer program adheres to an experiential education philosophy. In addition to the law enforcement-related training, emphasis will be given to team building and other activities designed to develop communication and leadership skills…and sometimes, we do things just for fun!

Candidates for the program should be prepared to submit a brief essay which describes the candidate’s interest in a law enforcement career. A background check will also be completed, and all Explorers must maintain at least a “C” average.

For additional information, please contact Deputy DeWayne Hill, dewayne.hill@sarasotasheriff.org, 941-587-1021.

explorers copy