AboutDick Rogers Expertise I`ve spent twenty-five years in law enforcement as a state trooper and deputy sheriff. Retired as a lead homicide investigator. My interest is in answering questions dealing with ethical and moral dilemmas facing officers in the field.
Expert: Dick Rogers Date: 6/19/2008 Subject: Am I too young??
Question Hello Mr. Rogers, I am a 20 year old male enlisted in the U.S. Army and I am currently deployed in Iraq and I have a security clearence and a clean background. I have 1 year to finish my Army contract and I plan to become a police officer when I get out. Do you think that I will have a good chance at getting hired on as a police officer since I have a military background and a combat arms MOS (job) or do you think that the Police dept. will frown on the fact that I am only 21? Thank you for your time, Michael.
Answer Michael, your fears are not warranted...you would be a prime candidate for any law enforcement agency. First off, you said you have a clean background...that is somewhat of a rarity in today's world. Also, you have served honorably in a branch of the armed forces...that is a plus in recruiters minds (many find the rigors of military life difficult if not impossible to navigate). Actually, your age is a benefit as well...you are young and haven't been exposed to previous police work that would compromise your training for the agency you hire on with. I think you would be a fine prospect and I wish you good luck with your search.
