ARLINGTON – Arlington is launching a new program to give teens a look behind the badge at what it’s like to serve in law enforcement, emergency services and the criminal justice system.

Arlington police are inviting young men and women ages 14-21 who have ever pondered a career in law and justice to participate in the newly forming Arlington Police Explorers program.

Youth 14 years old must have completed 8th grade. Potential participants must be currently enrolled in high school or a higher learning establishment with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Exceptions can be made for individuals aged 18-21 on a case-by-case basis.

The program will provide training and experience needed to help participants decide whether a career in law enforcement, emergency services or criminal justice is right for them, police officials said. Many members of local law enforcement agencies got their start as an explorer.

Explorers have many opportunities to apply the hands-on training they receive. Members can volunteer at community events for security work, direct traffic, fingerprint small children and assist with crime prevention programs, while learning firsthand how police do their jobs.

Police officers and detectives with special skills will be invited to meetings to explain how the department investigates cases.

An open house for the program will be 3:30 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Commons at Arlington High School, 18821 Crown Ridge Blvd. Details on the program and how to sign up will be available.