In the spring of 2026, the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office (ASO) launched an all-new Cadet Program. This six-month pilot program is designed to introduce young adults to careers in law enforcement and prepare them for future opportunities within the office. The program is intended to mentor cadets interested in becoming deputy sheriffs upon reaching the required hiring age. Applicants must be high school seniors or between 18 and 20 years old. They must also complete a background investigation similar to the one required for deputy sheriff applicants. Cadets are hired as paid part-time employees and may work up to 24 hours per week. 

The Public Safety Cadet for the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office provides administrative support for operations at the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office while participating in law enforcement training programs. This position offers exposure to the diverse functions and responsibilities of the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office, serving as an entry-level role for individuals aspiring to a career in public safety and law enforcement.  

ASO's first cadet is Cadet Regalado. Since starting the program, Cadet Regalado has gained valuable experience learning about the operations and responsibilities of the sheriff’s office in serving and protecting the citizens of Alexandria. During the past two and a half months, he has rotated through several divisions, including Civil Process, Judicial, Inmate Services, Classification, and Security. The cadet has also attended community events, where the office has had the opportunity to speak about the cadet programs to attendees. In addition, Cadet Regalado has participated in portions of the office’s new-employee training, including Ethics, PREA, CPR, and Inmate Manipulation training.

Interested in applying to the ASO Cadet Program? Find more information on how to apply here.