PINE BLUFFS -- Law Enforcement Cadets with the Pine Bluffs Police Department completed training earlier this week on vehicle contacts and effective communication. 

“[The training consisted of] various mock vehicle stops to teach the cadets how to communicate and approach the members of the public,” said Pine Bluffs Chief of Police Austin Smith. “The different scenarios required them to quickly think on their feet.” 

The program began in late June, and so far, the cadets have learned about traffic control to participate in various community events coming up. In the future, there will be a CPR class and a training session with the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office on self-defense. 

As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, the goal of the year-long cadet program is to prepare those who want to pursue a career in law enforcement. It will also give others an experience that will strengthen their leadership and public speaking skills they’ll need in any path they take. 

Even though the program is based out of Pine Bluffs, the department is partnering with Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Cheyenne PD, and Kimball PD to expand the training to the surrounding areas. 

Five cadets are signed up with the program with one on the way. 

“All of them are from Laramie County, but we would love some Nebraska representation,” Smith said. 

The next training session is Nov. 3 in Kimball. 

The Pine Bluffs PD is always accepting new members to the program. If you are interested in joining, contact the Pine Bluffs PD, Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, or Kimball PD.