Expert: Loren Stevens - 5/24/2007

Question
Mr. Stevens,

My husband (currently deployed) has been thinking about joining a police force.  He currently is enlisted in the Marine Corps and is an Infantry Marine.  At the end of next year he will have completed his four years (and two deployments if not three) and I am sure will recieve an honorable discharge.  He is an "expert" rifleman, but has no universtiy education.  My question to you is-- will he be a desirable canidate? I am well aware that there are numerous factors, but I would appreciate any input you have.

Thank you so much for your time,
Ann

Answer
Hello Ann,
First, thank you both for your service, and sacrifice.
I think your Husband will make an attractive candidate.
Most city, county and state agencies require only a HS or GED diploma. There are a few that require varying levels of college, but this is not the norm.
Clearly, someone with a BS/BA degree in Criminal Justice will also be viewed as attractive, but there are several considerations.
Agencies tend to look for maturity, experienced in a disciplined environment, and commitment to duty.
Clearly, the first hurdle to overcome for many candidates, is NO drugs, or alcohol abuse. And, another big issue these days, is NO prior issues with domestic violence. The "Lautenberg Amendment" pretty much steps on a police career, in terms of jobs requiring a fire arm.
I suggest he consider a police agency that is in a growth mode, rather than an agency that is in a cut-back or limited budget mode.
There is opportunity aplenty where communities are in growth, e.g.., Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Dept.
He could work on upper body strength, hand strength, and endurance.
He'll probably need some time to get his health up to par when he gets back.
He could study things like the US Constitution, especially the first ten amendments (Bill of Rights), plus the 14th amendment.
During an oral interview, they'll always ask "Why do you want to become...?" He should be prepared to convey a brief but logical response. And, there will always be questions on deadly force.
Google the "Use of Force Continuum" which is pretty much accepted as a standard in police work.
He won't want to deal with college while he is on probation. He'll have plenty to do, and very little discretionary time. After probation, go to college. He'll get tuition reimbursement from the agency, plus GI Bill benefits. It will help with promotions, and just be a good thing to do.
If he is looking for a federal LE job, many of those require  a college degree. There are several federal police jobs, in areas you wouldn't think of. Also, if police job isn't going to happen for him, there are several regulatory jobs that could be considered.
And, I am a bit biased, as I was also in the Marines prior to getting into police work.
Hope this is helpful. Also, in past years, there was early outs for those who intend to go to college, or get into public safety. I don't know if that program is still active, but you might want to check.
Good Luck,
and Semper Fi.
loren