The program is coordinated by Sergeant Nathan McKinnon and Officer Tom Martinez. The Merced Police Explorer Post 204 is a community based program that helps youth give back to their community, learn about law enforcement, and gain life skills.

One of the most important components of the program is community service . The Explorers have several projects such as Kiddie Land at Applegate Park, Camp Green Meadows Adopt-a-Cabin Summer Project, AT&T Pro Am Golf Tournament, Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance Car Show, 1st Tee Golf Tournament, and parking assistance for UC Merced Graduation. The Explorers also work various events in the city such as traffic control at parades, bike races, and walkathons. This year for the first time, the Post helped with the Merced County Election process. On average, each explorer will accumulate 250 - 800 hours per year in community service time. The Post also has “fun” outings such as ski trips, camping, trap shooting, and BBQ swim parties. Each year, the Post hosts an Awards Banquet and Christmas party.

We are proud that many of our past Explorers have pursued a higher education and are currently attending colleges both local and away. The program stresses the importance of an education. Even if the Explorer does not go into the Criminal Justice field, the training and experience she/he receives from the program will help prepare them for other endeavors in life.

To join the Explorer Post, applicants are required to be at least 14 years old and entering their first year of high school. The oldest age considered is 21.  They must have and maintain at least a 2.0 GPA or above, have good attendance and no disciplinary issues on record. They must complete an application, a scheduled interview, a brief background check, and additional paperwork before officially being accepted into the Post.

Explorers do not carry any weapons or engage in direct law enforcement activities. They are not authorized to carry firearms or any non-lethal weapons. Explorers are not peace officers or security in any capacity and are not authorized to make arrests. The primary goal of an Explorer is to observe and learn from trained professionals in our agency and to ensure public safety at the events they attend.

Be aware that if the Post is at full capacity, which is a max of 50 explorers, a waiting list will be set up until spots open for new applicants.

For more information about the program, contact Sergeant Nathan McKinnon mckinnonn@cityofmerced.org or Officer Tom Martinez martinezt@cityofmerced.org.

The application is here.  Enter the data in the form, save it, and then email it to Sergeant McKinnon or Officer Martinez.

EXPLORERS APPLICATION