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Question
im deployed to iraq right now and i have until nov. 2012 until my contract is up. what should be my first step to becoming a member of swat when i get out? should i go to school or become a police officer?
Tim:
There is no such thing as just 'joining' SWAT as each police department or law enforcement agency has it's own team (if they have one). You'll have to complete a police academy and work as a patrol officer for several years (at least), then compete for a spot on a team, when one opens up.
If you are interested in becoming a police officer, I'd suggest beginning to apply with various agencies you think you want to be a part of, about six months to a year away from your EAS, as the hiring process can take up to a year.
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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