Modern police rank structures grew from the London Metropolitan Police in 1829 and were adopted across the United States as agencies professionalized, added merit systems, and embraced incident command.
Ranks and the chain of command provide a clear structure for how a unit operates. They define roles, responsibilities, and authority so everyone knows who leads, who follows, and how to communicate. This structure promotes safety, accountability, and timely decisions, especially during training or incidents. It prevents confusion, supports consistent standards, and creates a pathway for mentorship and leadership development. In short, ranks organize people and resources so the mission is carried out effectively and professionally.
Cadets selected through an interview and/or testing process to lead the Cadet Unit, serving as the Unit Commander. The Cadet Captain will oversee the administrative matters and communication between Mentors and Cadets. The Cadet Captain will coordinate the activities of the Unit with the Lead Mentor. The Cadet Captain will also serve as a liaison between Coweta County Sheriff’s Office personnel and the Public Safety Cadet Unit from the standpoint of the Unit.
Cadets selected through an interview and/or testing process to assist leading the Cadet Unit, serving as an Assistant Unit Commander. Cadet Lieutenants are charged with managing squads within the Unit, overseeing the work of Squad Leaders and ensuring administrative needs of the Unit are met. The Cadet Lieutenant also serves as the Unit Commander in his/her absence.
Cadets selected through an interview and/or testing process to lead a Cadet Squad, serving as a Squad Leader. Cadet Sergeants are charged with maintaining administrative information, supervising at events, and maintaining regular communication with their Squad members.
Cadets selected through an interview and/or testing process to assist leading Cadet Squads, serving as an Assistant Squad Leader. Cadet Corporals assist with maintaining administrative information, supervising at events, and maintaining regular communication with their Squad members.
Seasoned Cadets who have been selected to train Probationary Cadets. Field Training Cadets assist with teaching new Cadets the skills needed to succeed in the Unit. Field Training Cadets serve as a first line leader to Probationary Cadets.
Cadets who have successfully completed the six-month probationary period will be promoted to Cadet. Cadets are the core of the Unit and make up the bulk of all members.
During the first six months, Cadets hold this rank. During this time, Cadets must attend meetings and trainings to learn the skills needed to become a Cadet.
Coweta County Sheriff's Office
560 Greison Trail, Newnan, GA 30263
(770) 253-1502