Watch CBS News

Rocklin Turning To Volunteer Force To Boost Police Patrols

ROCKLIN, Calif. (CBS13) -- Budget cuts that have forced many police departments to cut back on the number of sworn officers patrolling the streets, but Rocklin is hoping to fill the gap with officers who will work for free.

The Rocklin Police Department said it will use eight reserve officers to increase its force without spending any additional money on payroll.

Many of the volunteers will be recent police academy graduates who have lost out on paying positions to experienced officers who were recently laid off, according to Chief Ron Lawrence. The reserve officers will have the full authority of paid police officers.

"If you stood a regular police officer next to a reserve police officer they would look and act and perform the same," Lawrence said.

Aspiring police officer Jeremy Powell said he "absolutely would apply" for the job to gain the hands-on experience and get his foot in the door.

"They already know who you are, that you are committed to it and you'll be good at it, and ideally, you could get hired on," Powell said.

The head of the Rocklin Police Officers Association said the department assured him the unpaid positions will not replace any paid roles. The reserve officers will still have to pass background checks and training before they hit the streets.

Applications will be available for the jobs Friday.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.