History

Formed in April 1984, follows the mission statement, regulations, and standard operating procedures of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s
Department while working side by side with law enforcement officers.

Reserve officers function in various capacities in accordance with their talents, training levels, and staffing needs of the agency. The program provides the opportunity to work in the field for individuals whose life circumstances preclude full time employment and an entry- level experience for those who plan on pursuing law enforcement as a career. As sworn law enforcement officers we are committed to constantly improving our skills, knowledge, and ability to respond to the needs of the department and our community.

Last year, reserve officers volunteered over 12,000 hours of unpaid time away from their families and friends serving the citizens of Sacramento County. These dedicated men and women worked assignments such as patrol, marine division, service centers and the high tech crimes division.

Mission Statement and Organizational Goals The SCARDS mission is to assist and support sheriff and police departments throughout the greater Sacramento region with law enforcement operations as well as to link the reserve officers organization with sponsors and community support.

Guided by the overall mission, “Bonum commune communitatis” or “common good or general welfare of the community,” SCARDS seeks to provide opportunities and support for law enforcement efforts by way of standards, training, financial support and recognition.
This mission is accomplished through five goals:

• Contribute and aid in the development of the high professional standards of law enforcement to which peace officers of the State of California are dedicated.
• Promote and maintain an organization for the mutual advancement and welfare by all proper, suitable and lawful means.
• Provide members Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) certified law enforcement training by indemnifying or partially indemnifying any cost involved if approved in advance of the training by the board of directors
• Donate money or other assets to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Department that might otherwise not be available to further the goals and objectives of the department
• Make charitable donations to other nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations in accordance with the rules and regulations of the US Internal Revenue Service.