Reserve Officer Program
Join the Men and Women who wear the Badge!
"Bringing a new meaning
to San Bruno's Finest"
You see them driving police cars, walking a beat or riding on bicycle patrol. They are dressed in a dark blue uniform, fully equipped with safety gear. At first glance you think it's a regular, full time, paid Police Officer helping the community. It may go beyond that. It may be a San Bruno Police Reserve Officer.
The Reserve Police Officer Program has been with San Bruno for over 35 years. The purpose of the program is to provide a cadre of well trained volunteers (non paid) to augment regular officers. Reserve Officers ride along with regular officers and help provide quality police services to the community. They also provide support at special events such as parades, fairs, and City Park patrol. Reserve Officers are required to work a minimum of two, four hour shifts each month and attend a monthly training session.
Legislation, enacted in 1978, and since amended, has created several levels of reserve officers with varying standards for selection and training. California Government Code Section 1031 establishes minimum qualifications for employment of peace officers, including reserve officers. All applicants for this position must successfully pass a thorough background investigation, a polygraph examination, a psychological examination and a medical examination. To become a "Level I" reserve officer, the applicant must complete a Basic Police Academy, currently over 664 hours of training. Level II reserve officers appointed to a Level II position for the first time after June 30, 1999 must successfully complete the new Level III and Level II Modules as their entry-level training requirement. A "Level II" reserve officer works under the immediate supervision of a regular officer possessing a basic certificate. Police Reserve Module classes are available through the College of San Mateo.
You might ask " Why would anyone want to become a Reserve Police Officer and volunteer their time?" Retired Reserve Police Officer John Bishop said "It's a hobby. I'm there to assist and support regular officers. I enjoy it. I get an immediate sense of accomplishment when I can help someone." For others, it's a way to see if they want to embark on a career in law enforcement. Many law enforcement agencies hire their regular officers who have served as a reserve police officer. The San Bruno Police Department currently has seven regular police officers on staff that started their law enforcement career as a Reserve Officer. Retired Police Chief and former City Manager, Frank Hedley started his law enforcement career as a Reserve Police Officer. The department currently has ten Reserve Police Officers in the program.
If you have an interest in this program, or for more information on the program, contact Reserve Coordinator Sergeant Dermot Downes at (650) 616-7100 or email us at police@sanbruno.ca.gov .
Becoming a California Reserve Officer
