Bergen County Sheriff's Youth Leadership Academy

Demerit System

Purpose:
The demerit system is a method of grading a Cadet’s ability to recognize and adhere to the high standards and close attention to detail of an officer in his/her conduct and appearance. This system is also designed to motivate the Cadet to perform to the best of their ability.

Definitions:
1) Demerit: A negative grade assessed against a Cadet that has committed a deficiency. The seriousness of a deficiency is related to the number of demerits accessed.
2) Deficiency: An act, or failure to act, committed by the Cadet through design, carelessness, neglect or recklessness which violated regulations, prejudices good order and military discipline or fails to live up to the high standards of a professional Junior Officer.
3) Correction: Oral or written information conveyed by a superior officer indicating a deficiency on the part of the Cadet.
4) Dismissal: An excessive accumulation of demerits for infractions of the rules and regulations may be a basis for suspension or dismissal from the Bergen County Sheriff’s Youth Leadership Academy.

A Cadet will be removed from the program if he/she accumulates five or more demerits in one calendar year. Immediate dismissal from the program can result from the following serious offenses.

1) Insubordination/serious breach of discipline
2) Intoxication/impairment during Academy hours, functions or assignments or possession of an alcoholic beverage.
3) Chronic absenteeism/tardiness
4) Disorderly/immoral conduct – including (but not limited to) indecent exposure, possession of pornographic materials, sexual contact or sexual harassment.
5) Assault on any persons
6) Theft
7) Sleeping in class
8) Hazing
9) Arrest/conviction of any criminal offense
10) Cheating
11) Telling or covering up a falsehood
12) Gambling
13) Negligence of or willful damage to public/personal property
14) Conduct unbecoming an officer while on/off duty
15) Possession/use of a controlled dangerous substance, illegal prescription drugs or alcohol
16) Fighting/quarrelling
17) Possession of any weapon
18) Possession of any tobacco product
19) Operation of any motor vehicle in an improper manner

A Cadet will receive one or more demerits for the following offenses:

1) Failure to report into Teampages.com every Sunday.
2) Failure to email the Lead Instructor in charge of attendance as to any reason why an absence is needed
3) Impoliteness or disrespect
4) Improper dress (out of uniform)
5) Inattention
6) Profane or obscene language
7) Tardiness
8) Unexcused absences
9) Violation of chain of command
10) Silent contempt of the staff, orders or classmates
11) Unkempt, or poorly groomed appearance
12) Improper maintenance, and/or improper uniforms and equipment
13) Long hair is not secured off of the Cadet’s collar
14) Not clean shaven
15) Dirty hand or nails
16) Neglecting military courtesy (saluting)
17) Not prepared for class
18) Misuse of County property
19) Failure to follow instructions