Expert: Loren Stevens - 10/30/2007

Question
I have been intrested in becoming an officer in some part of law enforcement for some time now. I was wondering exactly hour someone would get a law enforcement career started. For example, what schools to attend and how would someone get onto the path of the Special Victums Unit?

Answer
Hello Ashley,
In generic terms, you need to finish high school, or GED. Most local and state agencies require at least this level of education. Concentrate on written and oral communications for openers, as it will serve you well after the entry phase.
Some city, county and state agencies require college, at the low end, would be an A.A., and some require either a BS or BA.
Most federal agencies will require a 4 year degree to be competitive.
Keep in mind, that the hire per application rate in most agencies, is roughly 10%. So, the candidate who can offer the best stuff, will likely make for a more attractive applicant.
Check out a few agencies that you might be interested in, and visit their web site, or their personnel-human resources unit for details.
If you are not yet 21 years old, see if these agencies have employment that will fit for you now, example: courier, cadet, supply etc.
This is a nice way to enter the process early. It gives you a "look-see" as an insider, on the agency dynamics, and employee chemistry.
Plus, as an employee, most agencies will reimburse college tuition for grades earned "C" or above. That's like a mini scholarship.
Consider a Community College for your lower division under graduate core classes, as it tends to be about 1/2 the cost of a 4 year University. The caveat, is to ascertain all classes taken will transfer.
Things you can do to help prep yourself, is to work on your hand strength, upper body strength, stamina and endurance.
Any hobbies such as marksmanship, martial arts etc is just more to put on the table to favor your position to a reviewing board.
Obviously, stay out of trouble, away from buttheads that get into trouble, NO DRUGS, or alcohol abuse etc. Do some research on "Oral Board Interviews for police applicant" there are some study guides you can dig up that will be helpful.
Understand the concept and reality in the use of deadly force. If this is something you could never do, be honest with yourself, and look for another career.
Study the "use of force continuum" which is a good slice to factor into an interview.
Study the Bill of Rights, especially the 4th, 5th, and 14th Amendments.
Review any agencies' STANDARDS of ETHICS policy. Grasp that, and you'll be ahead of the game.
The second part of your question is a bit confusing. Only mid to large size agencies will have such a unit. These units are subdivisions of the Investigative service division, and considered to be a "specialized" assignment.
It's nice to have a goal, but the attaining of that goal is going to be a ways down the road for you....like years.
You'll need to distinguish yourself at the entry level service first, on a sustained basis. After that, compete in-house for an assignment in Investigations. After that, lobby for the special assignment you seek, by demonstrated performance.
To help prepare for this assignment, take some counseling and Soc. classes in college. There are many behavioral type courses that will be helpful. Or, make it your miner. Better yet, go for a double major, with no miner.
As an example of a decent police web site, go to: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police web site, and check it out. Many will have "FAQ" you can look at.
Well, hopefully this is enough information to set you in motion. Hope it is helpful.
Good Luck, and regards.
loren