Expert: Dick Rogers - 3/1/2004

Question
Dear Mr. Rogers:

can you please give me details or an outline of the eigh hour day is like for a police officer. Im interested on being one, that would help alot.

Thanyou very much.

Answer
Marlon, sorry for the delayed response.  I have been receiving so many e-mails lately it's hard to keep track.  Once an officer is assigned to patrol duty, the main activity involves disputes between neighbors, family, wives and husbands, etc.  Occasionally, there is something more serious such as a story robbery or a home burglary.  Frequently, there are accidents, car pursuits, women having babies, assiting motorists.  Every day is unique which is why so many people enjoy law enforcement work.  I have a suggestion...most agencies allow people to "ride-along" where you can spend the shift riding with a patrol officer.  I suggest you do this and you will learn more than I could describe to you.  Good luck!