children hold books they received from the PAL book club in their classroom

Youth and Family Services

Our strongest partnership is with the community we serve. The Moorhead Police Department is committed to building trust and collaboration through programs that connect residents with law enforcement. These initiatives provide opportunities to learn, engage, and work together to keep Moorhead safe and welcoming for everyone.

Youth Services Coordinator – Louis Ochoa

Louis Ochoa plays a key role in supporting students and families. During the school year, he works at the Moorhead High School Career Academy and Moorhead Alternative Learning Center, mentoring youth and addressing behavioral and attendance concerns. He is also part of the Building Emergency Response Team at the Career Academy.

Louis is involved in the Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity (SEED) program, which promotes cultural understanding and equity in education. His work helps students connect their backgrounds and beliefs to their school experience, fostering a positive outlook both in and out of the classroom.

In addition to school-based support, Louis collaborates with police, probation, social services, and shelter care to assist at-risk youth. He oversees juvenile court community service referrals and organizes meaningful work opportunities.

 


 

Visit the School Resource Officers page to learn more about this program. 

Looking for a hands-on way to learn about law enforcement and serve your community?

The Moorhead Police Explorer Post gives young adults the opportunity to train alongside officers, gain real-world experience, and assist with community events. It’s a great way to explore a future career in law enforcement while making a difference in Moorhead.

 


 

About the Program

  • Re-established in 2004, the Explorer Post maintains 12–18 members annually.
  • Explorers meet 3–4 times per month and receive training in many areas of law enforcement from Moorhead Police Officers.
  • Training includes current laws, policing techniques, and hands-on skills.

 


 

What Explorers Do

  • Assist with traffic control during parades, bike rodeos, and community events.
  • Help with large-area searches and major cases when needed.
  • After a mandatory three-month probation, Explorers can participate in the Ride-Along Program (up to 6 ride-alongs per year with the Patrol Division).

 


 

How to Join

  • Applications are accepted year-round, but new members are added once a year in September.
  • Submit an online application or request a paper application.
  • Once received, you’ll be contacted to confirm and again during the recruiting period.

 

Ready to apply? Request an Application Here

For questions, contact us at 218.299.5143.

Check back soon for more information about 2026 Summer Programming.