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Careers: Police/Artist or Cop?
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Question
It may sounds strange, but I do very much feel split down the middle. Half of me very much wants to wear the uniform, protect, serve, or perhaps be a criminal/forensic psychologist. And the other half, the other half is just as natural, it's to be a successful writer.
Sometimes I think my imagination takes over, and I want to be a police officer for the wrong reasons -- but usually after a long time thinking, I realize that I want to be a cop for the right reasons.
I love psychology -- helping detectives in the field with criminals and victims would be just as fulfilling.
And then there's the writing part of me... the relaxed, mostly stress-free, struggling at my desk, writer. Sometimes I feel like being a writer is nice but selfish; betraying my craving to help others...
My point? I'd really like some advice on this troubling matter... If I follow through with applying to a police department, will I still have time to write? I feel like I'll loose one part of myself if I pick either or, instead of meshing them together...
Thank you very kindly for listening...
-Jen
Jen:
There have been several very famous writers....who became (or got better at their craft) while working as serving coppers. Joseph Wambaugh....(LAPD), Gene Roddenberry...(LAPD) and quite a few others.
You'll never know unless and until you try, and you'll always wonder. I suggest you GO for it. It'll also make you a better...and more believable, writer, no matter what you decide to write about.
Seriously. Do it!
By all means, keep in touch.
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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