On Saturday, February 24, 2007, the Federal Way Police Department will be holding their 8th Annual Law Enforcement Explorer Challenge.

The event will be held at Todd Beamer High School, 35999 16th Avenue South in Federal Way. Briefing will begin promptly at 8 a.m.

The Federal Way Explorer Challenge is a competition between 60 two-person teams from around Washington State. This year marks the eighth anniversary of its existence. The challenge is a competition between explorers from all over the state. We expect over 120 participants from around the region competing in this event held in WA State for the Law Enforcement Explorers.

The explorers are tested in 10-12 different mock scenes that simulate events that police officers deal with in our region. Most of the scenes are taken from actual incidents. Explorers are graded on their ability to get through each scene and get the job done safely and legally. Awards are given for top teams in each scenario and one overall top team.

The Explorer program is in association with the Learning for Life Organization and it offers the youth of Federal Way an opportunity to look into the world of law enforcement as a possible career choice. These young adults are presented with training and exposure to associated law enforcement activities throughout the year. Explorer scouts are between the ages 14 1/2 and 21. Most are high school students with an interest in Law Enforcement. Many of the local police agencies sponsor explorer posts.

For more information, you can contact Officer Curtis Tucker of the Federal Way Police Department at (253) 835 - 6737.