City of Palm Bay, FL
08/21/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/21/2026 14:48
Palm Bay Police Department Explorer Program
The Palm Bay Police Department's Explorer Program is chartered through Scouting America and is open to young people ages 14 to 21 who are of good character and have an interest in learning more about law enforcement and public service.
Participants will be introduced to the law enforcement profession through classroom instruction, hands-on training and scenario-based activities. They will work closely with Palm Bay Police officers who serve as program "Advisors," providing mentorship, guidance and a firsthand look at careers in public safety.
While the program can serve as an important career pipeline for the department, its impact goes beyond recruitment. Explorers have the opportunity to build leadership skills, discipline, confidence and a commitment to service that can benefit them regardless of the career path they ultimately choose. The program also creates another opportunity for Palm Bay Police officers to engage with local youth and strengthen relationships within the community.
The Explorer Program has already demonstrated its value as a source of homegrown talent. Palm Bay Police currently has 13 officers who previously participated as Explorers, including Chief of Police Jeff Spears.
The reestablished program also carries forward the legacy of Sergeant Frank Tobar, who served as the program's lead advisor for nearly 15 years. Sgt. Tobar had a deep passion for mentoring young people and made a lasting impact on youth and law enforcement officers throughout Florida. This year marks five years since his passing, but his influence continues through the officers he mentored and the program he helped build.
"Three of the advisors are former Explorers of Frank's, and they know firsthand the mentor he was," said Chief Jeff Spears. "His legacy lives on through the people he trained, the young people he mentored, and those who continue his example by investing in the next generation."
Anyone interested in learning more about the Palm Bay Police Explorer Program can contact [email protected].
City of Palm Bay, FL published this content on August 21, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on August 21, 2026 at 20:49 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]