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Careers: Police/Considering a career in Law Enforcement

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Expert: - 1/15/2005


Question
Dear Sir,
I am currently considering starting a new career in law
enforcement. The problem I face is that I have a wife to support
and a decent job that pays about the same as the Virginia State
Police. My job right now is all right- but I've always had a drive
to serve. My concern as I take these first few steps, is just that. I
have some apprehension about leaving a job I don't partiularly
enjoy, but that gives my wife and I some security, for another
that I really don't know a whole lot about. In short, I guess I'm
asking, what is it like to be a police officer?

Answer
Glenn:

 First, sorry about the delay in answering; computer problems here at home!   

  Being a police officer is more like a calling, than a career.  If you have the calling, the career is just an extra, added, benefit.  You'll never get rich doing it, but the VSP does have a decent benefits package, and job security.  Plus, it's a helluva lot of fun to do something you love, as opposed to something you just go through the motions to earn a paycheck to do.   

 Lastly, remember this line: (I use it as a signature on my email) "Nothing will ever be attempted, if all
possible objections must
first be overcome." --Samuel Johnson

Good luck in your career!

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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