Volunteers in Police Service

Volunteers In Police Services (VIPS) Volunteers participating in the Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) will be authorized to conduct only those duties assigned to them. They can be utilized in law enforcement related community service functions that do not require sworn status. If they are assigned to various activities to assist in the day-to-day delivery of law enforcement services, Clay County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) will ensure that these duties do not require the status of a sworn member, and their level of training is adjusted accordingly. Volunteers do not receive monetary compensation for their participation in the program. Membership is open to persons who are 16 years or older and of good character.

Applicants for membership must be cleared through a background check conducted by the CCSO Internal Affairs Section prior to acceptance into the program. A Background check will consist of the following:1. Local record via RMS and law enforcement agencies surrounding CCSO2. LinX Database search3. Criminal History – Fingerprints (NCIC/FCIC)4. Driver's License Supplemental Information Volunteers who will be assigned to tasks involving access to sensitive member or law enforcement information must complete the Level 2 Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) training prior to being assigned tasks. The following disqualifiers may determine eligibility for participation in the VIPS program: Three (3) moving violations within the past 24 months; any driver's license suspensions/revocations in the last five (5) years. This is enforced only if volunteer(s) intend to drive a sheriff's office vehicle. (Only if duties require driving an agency vehicle.)Any illegal drug use as defined in the Drug Limits Policy Statement to Applicants prior to the date of application. Any sale or delivery of any illegal drug/controlled substance. Have been arrested for any felony. Crime of dishonesty Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is found guilty of any felony or misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement, regardless of suspension of sentence or withholding adjudication, may not have their application considered. Any domestic violence convictions or pleas pursuant to 18 USC 922(g)(9) .Any arrests within the past three (3) years may disqualify applicant from VIPS program as determined by the VIPS Coordinator. If the volunteer applicant has been notified of deficiencies regarding their application and has not corrected the application or supplied required information. Any conduct or behavior deemed inappropriate or unbecoming that is discovered during the applicant/background process. Each VIPS applicant will be interviewed by the VIPS Coordinator or designee to determine the applicant's qualifications, interests, availability, and capabilities. The VIPS Coordinator or designee will provide an overview of CCSO, recognizing specific areas and opportunities in which the applicant may serve. Special emphasis will be placed on the confidentiality of information that may be obtained once the applicant enters the program. Each approved VIPS will sign an agreement with the sheriff's office and be issued a "VIPS Manual." The VIPS Coordinator will maintain a file on each volunteer. It will include the application, background checks, Hold Harmless and Indemnification Agreement, and documentation of any issued equipment, etc. A volunteer's position is not considered a permanent position. Dismissals must first be considered and approved by the VIPS Coordinator the Chief of School Safety and Youth Services, and the Sheriff, if deemed necessary. A volunteer may withdraw from the program at any time and can be dismissed at will. When a volunteer is dismissed or voluntarily leaves, they must return all CCSO property within five (5) working days of leaving the program.