MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Blaine Police Cadets Earn Multiple Honors at Statewide Explorer Conference in Rochester

BLAINE, MN (April 27, 2026) The Public Safety Cadet program with the Blaine Police Department recorded multiple top finishes at the 2026 Minnesota Law Enforcement Explorer Association State Conference, held April 23 through April 26 in Rochester.

According to the department, 19 cadets formed five teams and competed in a series of scenario-based and academic events designed to test law enforcement knowledge, decision-making, and physical performance. The conference is organized by the Minnesota Law Enforcement Explorer Association and draws participants from agencies across the state.

Competition Results

Blaine cadets placed in several categories, including:

• 1st Place Team Awards: Emergency First Aid and Street Decisions
• Individual 1st Place Finishes:
  • Pistol Shoot: Liam Benassi
  • 5K Run: Ian Farley
• Additional Placements: Multiple top finishes in investigative and response-based scenarios

Cadet Sophie Brenteson placed in the top six out of 168 participants in the Mock Interview competition.

Leadership and Advisor Recognition

Individual recognition extended to both cadets and program advisors:

• Zackary Simonson: Elected Youth Representative to a statewide leadership role and awarded a scholarship
• Sergeant Sam Mitchell: Named Advisor of the Year
• Sergeant Travis Hale: Elected to a leadership position on the MLEEA board

Don Cup Award

The Blaine Police cadets were also awarded the Don Cup, a top honor presented at the conference. The award recognizes overall performance based on teamwork, dedication, quality, and service.

Conference Overview

The Minnesota Law Enforcement Explorer Association conference provides structured training and competition for youth interested in public safety careers. Events typically include simulations such as traffic stops, emergency response, investigations, and report writing under the supervision of law enforcement professionals.

Department officials said the results reflect the cadets’ preparation and participation in the program, which focuses on hands-on training and mentorship.

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