The Columbus Police Department is currently taking applications for police cadets. Lt. Matt Harris, CPD spokesman, says that the cadet program is designed to give high school students an in depth look at law enforcement while being mentored by local officers.

Harris says that in the past, police cadets have assisted local officers at special events, such as the Ethnic Expo and DARE Graduations. He says that cadets who complete the necessary requirements are allowed to go on two ride-alongs with an officer each semester.

Harris says that applicants must attend a Bartholomew County school, be in grades 10 through 12 and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. Police cadets are required to attend the CPD Cadet Academy which will be held July 11-July 15. Applications can be downloaded from the Columbus police department website at www.columbus.in.gov/police/cpd-cadet-program/. Completed applications can be submitted to Officer Alyson Rech at [email protected], or dropped off at the Columbus Police Department. Cadet interviews are scheduled for Friday, May 27.