3 answers
Myles
Student
Vacaville
3
Questions
Asked
434 views
How do I become involved in law enforcement?
I am 21 years old and I'm interested in law enforcement because I have many family members in it, I just don't know where to start with my career.
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3 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Myles,
What's your background so far?
Most departments require at least a 2-year degree, in something such as Criminal Justice.
I recommend getting into a "citizens academy" which is offered by many police/sheriff departments. It gives you the opportunity to meet officers and go on ride-alongs. https://www.cityofvacaville.gov/government/police-department/getting-involved/community-law-enforcement-academy
As you start towards preparing yourself to be a police officer, you want to make sure you will present the best possible version of yourself as you go through applicant processing. This means: reduce the number of credit cards you have, pay down or pay-off your bills, develop and maintain positive relations with neighbors, employers, friends, significant others; keep a good driving record; make sure you register for the draft; physical fitness; etc.
Hope this helps!
Kim
What's your background so far?
Most departments require at least a 2-year degree, in something such as Criminal Justice.
I recommend getting into a "citizens academy" which is offered by many police/sheriff departments. It gives you the opportunity to meet officers and go on ride-alongs. https://www.cityofvacaville.gov/government/police-department/getting-involved/community-law-enforcement-academy
As you start towards preparing yourself to be a police officer, you want to make sure you will present the best possible version of yourself as you go through applicant processing. This means: reduce the number of credit cards you have, pay down or pay-off your bills, develop and maintain positive relations with neighbors, employers, friends, significant others; keep a good driving record; make sure you register for the draft; physical fitness; etc.
Hope this helps!
Kim
Martha Hepler, CPA, CFE, CAMS
CPA
5
Answers
Bentonville, Arkansas
Updated
Martha’s Answer
I am unsure if you are aiming for state, local, or federal, but I spent a few years as a forensic accountant at the FBI and also attended the FBI Academy for new agent training. I say that for a few reasons--
1) You can be in more of support role, like I did, using a technical skillset (accounting) to do vital work while still being in law enforcement- not just by being an officer, etc.
2) During my time at the FBI, I came across people from all walks of life with such a wide variety of backgrounds! Most were former military or former state/local police who spent time in those careers first before joining the bureau.
If you do decide to go federal law enforcement- whether that is DEA, HSI, Secret Service, ATF, FBI, or another federal agency- know that they accept people from all backgrounds/careers, so plenty of opportunities no matter where you're coming from!
1) You can be in more of support role, like I did, using a technical skillset (accounting) to do vital work while still being in law enforcement- not just by being an officer, etc.
2) During my time at the FBI, I came across people from all walks of life with such a wide variety of backgrounds! Most were former military or former state/local police who spent time in those careers first before joining the bureau.
If you do decide to go federal law enforcement- whether that is DEA, HSI, Secret Service, ATF, FBI, or another federal agency- know that they accept people from all backgrounds/careers, so plenty of opportunities no matter where you're coming from!
Kevin Czora
Law enforcement
26
Answers
Amherst, New York
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
It kind of depends on where you live. Even jurisdiction to jurisdiction, requirements will vary. As mentioned, many require 60 credit hours, or military service.
I was very involved in our hiring process, and can attest to the following:
No arrests, limited alcohol consumption, get physically prepared, no drugs, stay away from associates who are not reputable, no traffic tickets, volunteer in your community.
Also practice taking civil service exams.
A thorough background will take place, and social media will be scrutinized. Stay off of it, or closely monitor what you post.
This is just a few of the things you can start focusing on. If you should have further questions, please dont hesitate to ask. Good luck!
I was very involved in our hiring process, and can attest to the following:
No arrests, limited alcohol consumption, get physically prepared, no drugs, stay away from associates who are not reputable, no traffic tickets, volunteer in your community.
Also practice taking civil service exams.
A thorough background will take place, and social media will be scrutinized. Stay off of it, or closely monitor what you post.
This is just a few of the things you can start focusing on. If you should have further questions, please dont hesitate to ask. Good luck!