Carson City Sheriff’s Office cadets participate in local events, train with sheriff’s deputies and participate in annual competitions. Cadets may also be called to assist in community trainings as well as emergencies.
The cadet program is designed to test each cadet mentally and physically. Cadets also develop personal skills to build character and encourage them to be an active member of their community.


The Cadet program is for youth 14-21 years old. Cadets work side by side with local law enforcement and other first responders to gain hands on knowledge and experience in first responder techniques. These include; radio communication, interview and public speaking, weapon safety, law and criminal procedure, emergency medicine, crisis intervention, problem solving and crime scene investigation.

Events CCSO Cadets Participate in:
Competitions
- Cadets train actively throughout the year for cadet competitions. Typically, out of state, the competitions test physical endurance, teamwork, leadership and criminal procedure. Some of the competition events include: Crime Scene Investigation, Traffic Stops, Hostage Rescue, Suspicious Person, Domestic Battery and Unknown Problem. The cadets compete against other cadet programs from all over the western states.
Pebble Beach
- Cadets travel to Pebble Beach, Calif to assist with the PGA Pro/Am golf tournament and the Concourse De Elegance car show. They assist spectators and athletes with traffic control and pedestrian safety. The Cadets get to work with other cadet posts, building friendships and comradery. The Golf course donates to the cadet program allowing us to purchase uniforms and equipment. All food and housing are also provided by the tournament.
Hot August Nights MAG Auction
- MAG auction company invites the cadets every year to assist with the Hot August Nights hot rod auctions. Working with Reno area cadets, the Carson City Cadets push classic and high-end cars onto the auction line. MAG auction donates to the program.
Training days
- Cadets train with CCSO Deputies and the CCSO SWAT team in patrol operations and tactical operations. Using airsoft rifles, Cadets get to experience high adrenaline, scenario-based training with experts in the field. The experiences are then put to the test during competitions.
Cadet Appreciation Day
- Cadets that put in the hard work get the opportunity to participate in the appreciation day. Typically, once a year, the Cadets will go to a major theme park, such as Six Flags Vallejo, Calif. The day is entirely paid for with the hard-earned funds the cadets receive throughout the year.

Other events you will see CCSO Cadets working Cadets are continually participating in community events, such as: Sheriff’s Night Out, Cops and Kids, Rockin Rib Fest, Holiday with a Hero, and the annual State Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
For further information about the CCSO Youth Cadet Program or to get involved, please contact Volunteer Coordinator / Reserve Commander Rob Rikalo at (775) 283-7810 or rrikalo@carsoncity.gov.
