The Bennington County Sheriff’s Department (BCSD) Law Enforcement Explorer Program is a volunteer program designed for young men and women ages 14 to 19 to gain experience in and exposure to law enforcement careers. The program is chartered through Learning for Life (LFL), which is a subsidiary of the Scouts of America, and serves as an educational and career development resource with BCSD as the sponsoring agency. Law Enforcement Exploring is endorsed by numerous professional organizations, including the International Chiefs of Police Association (IACP) and the National Sheriffs Association (NSA).

BCSD POST #811

The primary mission of Bennington County Sheriff’s Department Explorers Post #811 is to provide young adults with an opportunity to explore a career in law enforcement through training, practical experience, and community service, while fostering character development, leadership, and a commitment to ethical conduct.

• Members must be at least 14 years of age and have completed the 8th grade. Members cannot be older than 19 years of age.
• Must have proof of active education enrollment and maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA and no failing grades.
• Must be drug free, including tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol.
• Must have good moral character, and must not have criminal involvement.
• Must give 100% commitment to attend mandatory monthly meetings and assigned activities. All meetings will be held at BCSD.
• Must have support from parents/guardians.
• Must have an interest in law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and/or a community service related field.

Ready to join?

Fill in our online application here.

Interested but want more information?

Fill out our Google Form, and we will reach out to you. Be sure to look at the handbook you will receive via email after submitting the form. It will be sent to the email address you gave on the form.

Want to talk to someone about the program?

Contact Explorer Advisor Dwight Franklin by calling (802) 442-4900 or emailing