Careers: Police/Police Officer

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Expert: - 2/26/2011


Question
Hello Jason,
 I am 36 years old in the state of MD.  Most cut-off ages for police academies are 37 years of age.  I have a clean background, a Master's Degree, solid work history, previous handgun and shotgun experience through an armored car service.  I have CPR and first aid certification as well.
 I have always wanted to become a police officer.  Plain and simple.  I do not have military experience.
Where would you direct me from this point forward.  

Thank you

Answer
Brad:

 Really?  I honestly wasn't aware of Maryland (or very many other than the federal gov) agencies that had/have age cutoffs for hiring.   

 The simple and easy answer stands at "Stop waiting and get moving".  No kidding.  If this is what you always wanted to do then DO IT.  

 I would apply at multiple agencies, state, county, and city.  The absolute worst thing that can happen is you get turned down.   But with your quals I think most agencies will give you a good look.

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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