Reserve Program

The purpose of the Reserve organization is to assist the department in maintaining the public peace, enforcing laws and ordinances, performing routine patrol on both land and water, performing search and rescue missions, responding to emergencies, and any other special function or duties as authorized by the Sheriff. The reserves are an excellent way for you to serve your community and make a difference in the safety and well being of the citizens of Douglas County.

There are four classifications of regular reserves ranging from a new recruit with no training or experience to a fully commissioned reserve deputy sheriff. The reserve unit is not a posse or auxiliary, and members are expected to attain at least a class 2 status (completion of reserve training academy) and are encouraged to attain class 1 status (full commission). A 220-hour Reserve Training Academy is held every year, and normally meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening for approximately 6 months.

Minimum qualifications for reserve applicants include:

• 21 years of age minimum (18 years of age for non-commissioned Marine Reserve).
• U.S. Citizenship
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid Washington State Motor Vehicle Operators License.
• No Felony Convictions.
• A good driving record as determined by the Sheriff.
• No misdemeanor convictions of concern to the Sheriff.
• Be in good health, of good moral character, and in good physical condition.
• No physical or mental defects or handicaps, which would prevent you from properly performing the duties of the position.
• Applicant must successfully complete a physical fitness test such as the "Cooper" test in accordance with current department guidelines.

As part of the application process you will be thoroughly investigated. You will be asked to fill out a Personal History Statement to aid us in the background investigation. You will also be asked to submit to a polygraph and/or psychological examination and we will take your fingerprints. People often ask me if a certain past indiscretion would eliminate them from consideration. Not necessarily. I can only say that negative factors in your past will be individually evaluated.

The reserves are a volunteer organization and receive no compensation from the county; however, Washington State Industrial Insurance and death benefits are provided while you are on duty. Reserves may also receive retirement benefits from the State Department of Retirement Services. Reserves serve strictly at the pleasure of the Sheriff and are subject to the rules and regulations of the department. Reserves are required to attend the regular monthly Deputies meeting and must perform at least 144 hours of duty per year. The department will provide you with your uniforms and you are required to furnish your own duty pistol and leather gear.

The reserves are an exciting and challenging organization. If you enjoy serving your community and making a positive impact on peoples lives while at the same time enjoying the personal growth which comes from this challenging field then please join us in the Douglas County Sheriff Reserves.

For more information email Sgt. Tom Couey - Reserve Director.

Documents

• Reserve Application
• Physical Fitness Test