Madera police to recruit new officers

Following the passage last November of Measure K, and because of the projected growth of the city of Madera, the Madera Police Department is hiring as many as 10 new officers.

“The city of Madera is expanding. We’re going to be taking in greater jurisdiction, probably Parkwood, Parksdale,” said Madera Police Sgt. Johnnie Smith. “That’s pretty much going to dictate that we need more officers to cover those areas, so we’ll be expanding our force to meet the needs of the community.”

The Police Department, as a part of the hiring, will sponsor eight to 10 recruits through police academy training at Fresno City College starting in June. These students, Smith, will be paid during their time in the academy.

A physical abilities test for the job will be held at Madera High School Saturday, Feb. 18. Applicants will be expected to do a 500-yard run, climb over a chain link fence, climb over a solid wall, perform a 32-foot drag of a 165-pound dummy, and navigate a 99-yard obstacle course, consisting of 90-degree turns, curb-height obstacles, and a 34-inch barricade to vault. All of these tests will be timed.

A written examination will be held the next day.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old at time of appointment, with no felony convictions, Smith said. They must also possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Class C California driver’s license. The applicants must also be United States citizens, or able to obtain citizenship within three years of employment application.

In addition to these recruits, the department also swore in four new officers late last month. The deadline for applications is Feb. 15.

Those with question are encouraged to contact Sgt. Smith 675-4291.