Expert: Loren Stevens - 11/27/2007

Question
Im a senior, I really want to become a police officer I just need some pointers where to go. I am a very fit person and run a mile at 4:50 so I have no problems with fitness

Answer
Hello Kirby,
Sounds like you have a plan developing.
Fitness is good. Work on your endurance/stamina, hand strength and upper body strength.
After HS, you might want to take some classes at a Community College. Criminal Justice classes are ok, like a survey class. But I would concentrate on written and oral communications classes. They will serve you well. Also, get alot of the "core" classes under your belt, e.g., English 101 and 102, Political Sci,, and required social sciences. Make sure that all the classes you take absolutely transfer to a 4 year program.
Go ahead and review some of my prior answers relating to a double major, no miner.
If you have an agency in mind, stop in and visit their personnel or human resources department. They'll have printed information there you can have.
Also, troll the web. Most agencies of any size now have a web site. If you kind of know where you want to work, see if they have employment opportunities for young folks not yet 21. These jobs typically include: courier, cadet, veh transport-services, maint. etc.
This is a good way to becoming an "in-sider" in terms of learning the socio-professional dynamics of the agency.
Sometimes, (and space available), they'll let wannabes sit in on training classes.
Plus, all this time you are earning seniority credits for your pension later, and possibly other seniority rights.
Often time, agencies/counties/cities and states will reimburse college tuition fees for an earned grade of "C" or better...for employees.
If you are considering the military, talk to all the branches' recruiters about a guarantee on a field of Military Police.
If you have a hankering for the feds, you'll more than likely need to get your BA/BS degree.
And, don't overlook other federal agencies just because they are not housed in the DOJ, or Treasury Departments.
About every office in the fed government subdivision framework has a law enforcement component, often, more than one, and that includes all the service branches.
Along with traditional police agencies, you may want to look at agencies that focus on regulatory investigations as well.
Any hobby that lends to your being a more attractive candidate is a plus: martial arts, firearms proficiency, bilingual, computer skills, first aid certifications etc.
And, take an honest assessment of your background. Any drug use, criminal offenses or other "surprises" will come back to bite you on the butt.
You'll likely take a polygraph examination. I would urge you to be honest and upfront on that. It's all about "CHARACTER".
Driving records are looked at as well.
And, if you want to do some independent study, study the Constitution, Bill of Rights, + 14th Amendment.
Rules of evidence, Laws of arrest, etc.
Prepare for an oral interview...VERY important you don't drop the ball there. Consider most agencies only hire 10% or less of all applicants.
Questions you can anticipate and prepare for include: Why do you want to work in Law Enforcement....Could you use deadly force if the situation warranted it?
You'd be wise to entertain any of your belief systems at this juncture, and reconcile any conflicts.
Study the "Use of Force Continuum".
Well young man, I think this is enough to get you on your way.
Hope it is helpful.
Good Luck, and
Regards,
loren