Four Island County Sheriff’s Explorers members learning about law enforcement through the Island County Sheriff’s Office proved they are among the best in the state in a recent Explorer challenge activity.

The Federal Way Police Challenge was held Feb. 26 in Federal Way. Four of the seven Island County Sheriff Explorers attended the event. The challenge brings together Explorers from all over the state to compete in mock law enforcement scenes in teams of two.

Coupeville residents Shane Cupit and Michael Pelzer earned a third-place finish in a domestic violence scene. Also participating in the event were Josh Edwards and Mark Wasmund. Participants competed in and are judged on several scenes, including domestic violence, traffic stops, building searches and field interviews. They were graded on how they worked through the scenes and how they problem solve. The day also included a physical agility course and demonstrations.

The Island County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post #4058 is advised by Deputy Laura Price, and has been active since June. For a post with little experience, she said the Explorers performed excellent for such a young program.

“We’re just getting started,” Price said. “They did very well.”

Whidbey Island’s explorer post serves as an opportunity for teenagers who are serious about exploring the career of law enforcement. They are a part of the Boy Scouts of America “Learning for Life” program, but both males and females ages 14 to 21 are eligible to apply.

Explorers participate in monthly meetings, training with the department’s detectives and deputies and observing the law enforcement field by riding along with a commissioned officer. Explorers pay $5 a month for dues — which eventually repays the sheriff’s office for their uniform — and should be willing to commit several hours a month to the post’s duties or training.

For more information about the Sheriff’s Explorer Post #4058 visit the Sheriff’s Freeland Precinct, 1614 Main St.; or the Law and Justice Center, Island County Sheriff’s Business Office, 101 N.E. 6th St., Coupeville. For more information call 321-5113 Ext. 7310.

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