Police to test waters with Public Service Aide position

Sometimes it’s best to test the waters before jumping in all the way. That’s exactly what the Clovis Police Department is trying to accomplish with its new Public Service Aide program.

According to the job description, PSA is a civilian position designed to augment the certified officers in the performance of their duties as well as taking on some of the duties that do not require a certified officer to perform.

Deputy Chief Trevor Thron said the position gives a person the skills, tools, and resources they need to become certified in law enforcement if they choose to take that next step.

The PSA was unanimously approved by Clovis city commissioners at their first regular meeting of April and was just approved on Thursday by the Human Resources Department.

“They may want to learn what law enforcement is all about,” Thron said.

CPD is looking for two full-time positions and four part-time. The starting pay will be $18.24 an hour.

Thron said the position is intended to pave the way for future police officers. But those wanting to remain PSAs long-term, that is also an option.

Those that take on the role of a PSA will report on issues that would not have investigative value, work traffic control at incidents as well as community events, handle parking complaints, etc.

Those working as a PSA would be given a vehicle to patrol in. Applicants must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma or GED.

Other qualifications include:

• Must be a U.S. citizen and have documentation to prove the right to work in the United States.

• Successful completion of CPD In-House & Field Training (FTO); and

• Some experience in law enforcement or college level course work in criminal justice or other law enforcement field preferred, but not required; or

• Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

For more information, contact CPD at (575)769-1921 or visit police.cityofclovis.org