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Why did you choose to become a police officer?
#police-officer #police #law-enforcement
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Kimberly’s Answer
Great question...I chose to become a police officer because of my best friend's father. He was a police officer and one of the happiest and kindest people I knew as a child. I loved to hear his stories and life lessons and came to understand that you should choose a job that 1)makes you happy and 2)benefits the world around you in some way.
Not everyone is a good fit for police work, though. For example; if you don't handle stress well, or lose your patience easily or you don't like interacting with strangers, police work is probably not a good fit.
But if you like problem solving and have the ability to view things from someone else's shoes, called empathy, you may want to consider a career in law enforcement. It is such a rewarding career that can benefit both you and your community.
If available, ask to do a ride along with your local police dept.
Not everyone is a good fit for police work, though. For example; if you don't handle stress well, or lose your patience easily or you don't like interacting with strangers, police work is probably not a good fit.
But if you like problem solving and have the ability to view things from someone else's shoes, called empathy, you may want to consider a career in law enforcement. It is such a rewarding career that can benefit both you and your community.
Kimberly recommends the following next steps:
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Jen’s Answer
My husband recently retired from the police force. He joined to keep people safe - period. He had a wonderful career and enjoyed working with the public maybe more than internal politics. He has saved many lives and apprehended suspects. But make no mistake, this is the most challenging time, in our life time, to be in law enforcement. There are so many great officers out there, but there are some that have given law enforcement a bad name. I agree with Kimberly, that you need to be patient, understanding and able to manage stress and ditch any ego you may have.
Updated
Andy’s Answer
Brittany,
There are many reasons why people become police officers. I personally became one for two reasons. 1) I wanted to be able to be the voice for individuals who have been victimized by criminals. 2) I wanted to be a positive role model and influence on the younger generation.
There are many reasons why people become police officers. I personally became one for two reasons. 1) I wanted to be able to be the voice for individuals who have been victimized by criminals. 2) I wanted to be a positive role model and influence on the younger generation.
James Hammond
Criminal Investigator at Dallas County District Attorney's Office
35
Answers
Dallas, Texas
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James’s Answer
I was the victim of a crime and was impressed with the officers that responded.
Check with your local agency to see if they have a Police Explorer Program. Several Explorers that rode out with me when I was in patrol became law enforcement officers themselves.
If there is not a program in your area, see if the agency allows observers to ride out.
Also, some agencies offer intern programs.
James recommends the following next steps: