Expert: Loren Stevens - 1/9/2009

Question
I know i shouldn't believe everything that i see on Tv but i would like to know if there is a special victims unit, how many departments exist. I am 18 and I am graduting high school this year what should be my next moves after high school. thanks

Answer
Hello Breena,
You are wise not to believe all that is advanced on TV or the movies. Try to remember, that what is being offered is NOT a documentary. What is being offered, is ENTERTAINMENT.
It's wonderful how these cop shows can solve a very complex investigative case in 40 minutes, and still have ample time to sell dog food.
Another "tell", is that these shows tend to illustrate these officers working ONE case at a time. This in and of itself, is an absurdity. Make a call to about any agency, and ask what a "typical" case-load (per month) is for an investigator. And, keep in mind, that Detectives working property crimes get assigned a tremendous load far surpassing what the Investigators get who work crimes against the person offenses.
Yes, many agencies have a "special Victim's" type unit, or an abundance of other subsections of an investigative body. Often times, the functions are similar from one agency to another, but the unit name is different.
Some have "habitual offender's units" others have "major suspects" teams etc.
Sometimes, there are multi-agency initiatives in a "Task Force" effort.
Bottom line....they seek to prevent and solve crimes. They also need to prioritize human resources, as the demand for service will insist on doing so.
It's like cramming a gallon of action into a pint jar....every day.
"What your next move after high school should be?"
Beats the hell out of me my friend.....I know that sounds awful, and flippant, but how would I know the answer to that?
Prophecy is not one of my gifts.
If you are interested in law enforcement, or criminal justice, there are an abundance of paths to take.
College, volunteer work, military, a civilian position in an agency, until you are of age to petition for a commission, etc et al.
Try to figure out exactly WHAT you want to pursue, and where you want to pursue it. Like what agencies appeal to you.
In all aspects, ask yourself WHY do I want this, what is my motivation, and how did I arrive at my goals.
What will I settle for, if I cannot attain my original goal? In other words, if for some legitimate reason you cannot be a police officer, how about looking into a position in the regulatory field?
Without knowing more about you, or what your interests are, it's difficult for me to comment.
What I would suggest you do now, is to consult with your school career counselor, and your folks. You may be surprised at the worthwhile input you get.
Then, stop by any police agency, and collect their recruiting materials for insight.
I hope this has been helpful to you.
Good Luck, and regards,
loren