Careers: Police/asking for info

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Expert: - 7/4/2007


Question
Dear J. Grabill,
     Hello, I am certain that I want to become a New York State Trooper. I am sixteen years old and I was wondering if there is anything that I could do at this age to make me stand out from the rest of the candidates when I go through the hiring process. I have asked around for ride-along programs and the police departments near me do not have them. I have plans of attending college for criminal justice and I even buy the test prep books. I have considered joining the Army for two years as this should help prepare me for the career but, I refuse to jump out of planes and what not. Should I rethink joining the Army? Lastly, if I did actually become a State Trooper,do you have any idea of the chances of being relocated to a different part of the state?


Answer
Mike:

 I have no idea how NY state works as far as moving it's troopers around, but chances are even if they move you, you could eventually come back home if you wanted.

 As far as joining the military, it's always a good idea to do so.  You don't have to be an MP (as a matter of fact, I'd advise against that choice) you can do anything you want.  Check with all the branches and see which one is right for you.  

 Lastly, take lots of English, Creative Writing, Journalism, and Literature courses.  Cops write far more than they do anything else, and you'll go far with the ability to do so.  That will set you apart from the crowd.

 You might also check into the NYSP and see if they have a cadet program.  I know Maryland does, and they allow people to get hired at 18 as MSP cadets, plenty of ride along time there, as well as a good start towards the academy.

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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