Maricopa Police cadets showed off some top tier law enforcement skills at the 2025 Chandler Tactical Competition for Cadet and Explorer posts this weekend.
In competitions against larger teams from California, Florida, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Glendale, cadets took home first and second place prizes in simulated shooting, as well as first place in tactical hatchet throwing. They also placed third in handling a vehicle assault and a five-man hostage rescue.
Last year, cadets took home second, third and fifth place awards.
The Maricopa Police Cadet Program allows adults and youth interested in law enforcement “to learn more about what law enforcement officers do on a daily basis,” MPD Detective Kevin McCullar told InMaricopa.
Participants in the program must be a high school student at least 14 years old and sign a contract agreeing to be a good citizen and maintain good grades.
“Kids in high school are dealing with peer pressure, with drugs, parties, alcohol,” he said. “If you’re part of this program, the standards stay high. You’re responsible for your behavior even when you’re not representing the cadets.”
However, due to a lack of funding, the program is limited to 14 or 15 students and the cost is covered by the Maricopa Police Foundation.
“This is their opportunity to participate in a program that’s free. I want kids who can’t afford it to still have that opportunity,” McCullar said.
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Maricopa Police cadets compete in 2025 Chandler Tactical Competition for Cadet and Explorer posts. [Maricopa Police Department/submitted]
Maricopa Police cadets compete in 2025 Chandler Tactical Competition for Cadet and Explorer posts. [Maricopa Police Department/submitted]
The Central Arizona College Foundation Night of Stars [submitted]The Central Arizona College Foundation Night of Stars
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