SAN ANTONIO – The Bexar County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday that it will lower the age minimum to become a deputy.
Effective immediately, 18-year-olds will be able to apply to the detention cadet program. Those accepted to the program will undergo the same training provided at the detention academy, including firearms qualifications and defensive tactics.
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Detention cadets will become certified as jailers through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.
Unlike the normal detention officer program, detention cadet graduates will be transitioned to a “blue shirt position" and will be assigned to security monitoring duties at facilities throughout Bexar County.
Blue shirt position officers will be responsible for screening and monitoring designated entrances at the facilities.
On the blue shirt officer's 19th birthday, they will be assigned to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office Detention Division and begin on-the-job training. After three weeks of training, they will assume the role and duties of a detention officer.
The blue shirt position is a full-time job that includes benefits.
Currently, only two 18-year-old detention cadets are enrolled in the detention academy. Previously, the age minimum was 19.
Those who would like more information on upcoming testing dates or entry level requirements can call 210-335-JOBS.