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Careers: Police/State Trooper Career Path

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Expert: - 12/29/2008


Question
Hello,
   I hoping that you might be able to assist me in finding out some information about becoming a State Trooper. My fiance is currently seeking to start a career in law enforcement. Currently, he is 22 years old and has taken some classes at a community college in PA. In Community College his major was General Studies. I see that the State Trooper Programs in DE, and PA I believe have a minimum of a 60 credit hour requirement to participate in the program, but currently Maryland does not. At this moment he does not have the minimum of 60 credit hours for Delaware or PA, but is trying to get advice for his next course of action when applying for these programs.  We want to know what are things that would make him a prime candidate to become a trooper other than the basic requirements. Like are there things, such as already having his license to carry, or a certain law enforcement program that he should participate in. He has a clean record, and he really wants to make a career of this. Any advice you could offer such as a possible pathway to success would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Brittany

Answer
Brittany;

 You are correct, in Pa (not sure on DE) without those credits they basically won't talk to him.

 Prior military or a college degree in something other than Criminal Justice are a plus as well.  Being physically fit, having good moral character (no criminal issues or drug use) will also act in his favor.  Persistance in the application process will also help out, many folks don't get selected on the first try...just keep trying!

Jason

Careers: Police

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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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