Become a Reserve Officer for the Golden Valley Police Department

**Editor's Note: The below information comes from the Golden Valley Police Department's neighborhood watch blog.

The Golden Valley Police Department is seeking community-minded men and women who want to volunteer by supporting the department as a reserve officer.  Reserve officers come from all walks of life - from young adults looking to start a career in law enforcement to parents with established careers to retired grandparents looking to volunteer in their free time. It could be YOU!

What is a Reserve Officer?

A GVPD reserve officer’s main role is to support the everyday operations of the police department.  It is a non-licensed, (no power to arrest anyone and not authorized to carry firearms), uniformed position (we provide the uniforms and all the equipment) within the department.  

Our reserves provide an invaluable service just by giving their time and attention to the city. They donate over 500 hours of service annually by assisting with routine patrol as well as at city events such as Valley Days, Night to Unite, the Public Safety Open House, and the Animal Humane Society Walk for Animals. 

Why Become a Reserve?

• Give back to the city in which you live, work and/or play.

• Ride-along with sworn officers.

• Learn about the complexities of law enforcement.

• Drive a police squad car!

• Be a role model for your children/grandchildren  . . .for everyone!

• Get the opportunity to teach community members about safety and security.

• Be part of a fantastic team of people who protect the city every day.

Primary Responsibilities 

• Act as another set of eyes to spot criminal activity and report it to the licensed officers.

• Perform house and business checks looking for open/unsecured doors.

• Provide traffic control at accidents or city functions.

• Provide traffic direction at city events & activities.

• Assist the department with community outreach and education.

• Assist with department training.

• Participate in emergency callouts –reserves become invaluable when assisting in securing major crime scenes, critical incidents and disasters.

Minimum Requirements

Police reserve officers must:

• be at least 20 years old

• be a US citizen

• be a high school graduate or equivalent

• have a valid Minnesota driver’s license & a good driving record

• complete an oral interview

• pass a criminal background investigation and have no convictions

• pass a psychological exam

• be in good physical health

• be available to attend the Hennepin County Reserve School (10 week course – one evening a week for 10 weeks)

• volunteer one weekend night a month for patrol

• attend one evening training meeting per month

For more information or to apply, visit our city website or contact Sgt. Jeff Johnson.