Careers: Police/Marine Contract

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Expert: - 7/19/2009


Question
Hello, I decided I was going to join the Marine Corps a couple of months ago, but have now started to have 2nd thoughts.  I have signed most of the paperwork but haven't entered boot camp yet.  If I decided not to go will this affect my chances of applying to become a police officer?

Answer
Brian:

 Yes.  Shows a lack of commitment, and you'll be discharged from the Delayed Entry Program, (and consequently be unable to attempt to re-enlist into any branch, usually for at least a year).   If I were on a hiring board I'd want to know the why's and wherefore's and be concerned as to your ability to complete the Police academy as well as stay in the job.  

 Put another way, it would not make you an 'optimal' candidate, esp. as compared to others who HAVE military service.  You would be 'rated' (due to civil service rules among other things) as below them on a hiring list.

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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