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Careers: Police/police academy training

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Expert: - 10/15/2007


Question
Hi Jason, I'm recently out of the Marine Corp, my career objective is to become a police officer. The problem I'm having is, when I apply for various positions the number 1 question I'm asked is "have you been thru the police academy?" my answer is no, so this is holding me back from some great opportunities.  My first question is can I pay to go to an academy? Second I have my G.I. bill benefits and would like to use it to either pay for or help off set the expense. I'm not sure how to apply for or even if my G.I. benefits will apply, can you possibly shed some light on this or point me in the right direction.  Thanks in advance.....Mike

Answer
Mike:


  First, Semper Fi!  Thanks for your time in service.

OK, it's going to depend on your state.  I'm assuming that most departments in your area want already certified officers which is the problem you are running into.  You should be able to pay to go to an academy if your state allows that kind of thing.  I'd suggest a simple 'google' search for your state's name, and "police certification".  The more direct route would be to simply go to your local PD and ask about getting a certification, what the process is, etc.   Someone there should be able to help you out or at least get you pointed in the right direction.  

 In some cases, your VA benefits will cover the academy costs, in others it won't.  I think it mostly has to do with if the academy counts toward a degree.  The admissions folks at the academy will be able to help with this, if they can't, check with your local VA representative.  

 Give those avenues a shot, and let me know how things work out, don't hesitate to ask more questions if you need to.

 Good luck!

  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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