The probationary program bridges the gap between classroom knowledge and independent patrol.
All of the ridealongs / phases must be completed in the order listed below.
After completing training, it is the discretion of the Academy Trainer to assign a Probationary Deputy with a required number of ridealongs.
An Academy Personnel member drives with the Probationary Deputy explaining and answering any questions and showing them the basics of patrol whilst providing constructive criticism and praise where necessary.
During this phase, Probationary Deputies must complete all 8 Mandatory Tasks.
An Academy Personnel member will document all ridealongs and provide notes following the ridealong.
After the completion of Phase 1, the Probationary Deputy will have the opportunity to fill out a Letter of Interest for the Probationary Advancement Programme.
Performance during this time is closely monitored.
Probationary Deputies enrolled in the PAP Programme will only have one opportunity or they will be removed from PAP.
Probationary Deputies enrolled in the PAP Programme will schedule an evaluation ridealong with a suitable Training Officer (FTO+), during the ridealong, the FTO is merely there in the event of an emergency, they will not guide the Probationary, answer any questions or assist the Probationary Deputy unless it is a life-or-death situation. The Training Officer will provide notes and complete a checklist of their own and forward it to FTO-E's where it will then be voted on and results provided within 24 Hours.
Following the completion of the Ridealong, if successful, the Probationary Deputy will be promoted to Deputy.
The Probationary Advancement Programme is completely optional, Deputies can choose to wait until the promotion panel if they wish.
After the completion of Phase 1, if the Probationary Deputy does not wish to complete the PAP Programme, they will be closely monitored and discussed at the promotion panel with the rest of the Deputies.
It is still a requirement for the Probationary Deputy to complete their checklist 100%.
The probationary phase must be completed within 45 days.
Probationary Deputies are not permitted to take LOA. It is only reserved for Military Duties.
Failure to complete training within this timeframe results in removal from the department (unless an approved Leave of Absence applies).
Probationary Deputies can be terminated at any time for any department policy violation however the Blaine County Sheriff's Office Supervisory Team will always attempt to educate rather than issue punishments where possible.
Extensions for Disciplinary Action:
Verbal Warning – No extension
Written Warning – 1 week extension
Strike – 2 week extension
All extensions are recorded in the probationary ridealong list.