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Question
Jason,
I'm currently 27 years old, have a BA in Political Science. I've been working in the financial world for almost five years now. I'm thinking about making a career change and am seriously considering law enforcement. What is the appropriate path to becoming a police officer?
Also, having worked in the financial world, I've been exposed to quite a bit of partying as was a requirement of my job. Unfortunately, I experimented with illegal drugs during this time on several occasions, mostly marijuana. But, I haven't smoked pot in years, will my prior exposure and experimentation with drugs be an automatic disqualifier during the application process?
Eric:
Basically, check with your local agencies (online is the best way) to see who is hiring. Many have a physical fitness test, so if you are 'out of shape', start getting into shape.
The drug use is going to depend on how many times, and exactly WHAT you did. Some are automatic disqualifiers, but many are not. You'll need exact dates and times of use for the background information.
Expect this process to take months before you are hired. You might also consider federal agencies, such as the FBI, or the military investigators (OSI for the Air Force, NCIS for the Navy & Marines, CID for the Army) who are always looking for civilian investigators with degrees.
Good luck!
Jason
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions
Experience
18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Organizations
Police Marksman Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified.
CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.
Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).
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