Reserves

2KFPD21

The Klamath Falls Police Reserve Program was established in 1990 by Chief James Hunter. The Reserve Program is a non-profit, volunteer organization which provides qualified individuals the opportunity to be trained and serve in a law enforcement capacity within the community. 

Reserve Police Officers are duly appointed police officers who carry the same authority, equipment and share many of the same responsibilities as full-time police officers. The program normally consists of approximately 20 members who provide additional police service to the department and our community at no expense. Although Reserve Police Officers are not compensated monetarily, they do receive valuable police training and experience in return for their service. Many Reserve Police Officers eventually pursue full-time police employment. However, some simply enjoy serving the community in a reserve capacity.

Training

Reserve Police Officers are required to attend a six month Reserve Academy. The academy is typically held two evenings each week from 6 to 10 p.m. and every other Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Upon completion of the academy, Reserves must complete an in-depth field training process before they are certified in the program. Reserve Officers are required to contribute a minimum of 36 hours every two month period after completing the academy.

The program allows Reserve Officers to evolve through four different levels as their experience increases. Each level offers additional responsibility. Level one has the greatest amount of responsibility which allows Reserve Officers to work patrol in a solo capacity.

Functions

In addition to patrol duty, Reserve Police Officers are utilized in other areas such as bicycle patrol, crime scene security, surveillance operations and traffic control. They are also utilized for special functions such as parades, firework displays, the Klamath Cruise and numerous other events.

Qualifications

Prior to acceptance into the program, each applicant must submit to an application screening, an oral board testing process, a background investigation, a physical fitness examination and a psychological evaluation.

Minimum qualifications include the following:

  • Must be a United States Citizen at least 21 years of age
  • Must possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Must have a valid Oregon Drivers license with a responsible driving record
  • Must possess a responsible personal history
  • Must have no felony convictions
  • Must have no misdemeanor convictions or arrests within 2 years of application

Applications are accepted throughout the year and kept on file. Selected applicants are invited to attend testing processes prior to each Reserve Academy. Remaining applications are discarded after each Reserve Academy.

Equipment

The police department provides uniforms for Reserve Officers. However, they are expected to provide much of their own equipment (firearm, handcuffs, belt, boots, etc.).

It should be noted that participation in the Klamath Falls Police Department Reserve Program is no guarantee of future full-time employment.

Applications

Applications (DOC) can be obtained at and returned to the:
Klamath Falls Police Department
2501 Shasta Way
Klamath Falls, OR 97601

Questions about the program should be directed to the Reserve Coordinator at 541-883-5336.