Obviously the main reason we have a police force is to enforce the law. Police officers help to keep law and order by arresting criminals, helping out when there is an emergency situation, crime investigation, prosecution of criminals by way of collecting evidence, writing up of detailed reports and testifying in court, to name but a few job activities of a police officer.
Police officers are located within cities and towns where sheriff’s deputies have authoritarian powers in more rural areas where there are few if any police. The police officer in larger towns and cities will perhaps work in specialized areas such as homicide, rape or traffic departments. Where in more rural areas they will be expected to undertake a far wider range of jobs which could include minor traffic offences right up to homicide.
What sort of Education Does a Police Officer Require?
Requirements for education to begin as a police officer or sheriff’s officer vary region to region. In the larger cities and towns a basic requirement often entails a 4-year criminal justice degree. Where in smaller communities, a high school education may well suffice. Most places though much prefer a formal education at associate degree level, and this requirement will only grow as time goes on. Additional training upon employment as a police officer will be required, and that will often ocurr at a state or federal law enforcement academy.
Any Special Skills Required?
Part of the pre-requisite of becoming a law enforcement officer is to have an excellent ability to communicate, an above average ability to make on the spot judgement calls and decision making skills, and an ability to listen. An ability – which can of course be learned – to write short, concise and to the point reports which will often be used in court as evidence. Knowledge and skills in computers and internet is valuable, accounting, business, weaponry, driving skills which are above commonly held skills, and an ability to speak at least one foreign language to some extent are all valuable additions to have. And ideally a law enforcement officer should be in good physical condition with good natural vision.
What is the Salary and Benefits on Offer for a Police Officer?
When first starting in a career, police officers can expect to earn between $22,000 and $26,000 in many North American cities and towns. After a further six years of service, salary expectations go up to an average of $34,000 or above, depending on whether the candidate is on a career fast track or otherwise. The majority of police departments also offer retirement plans, medical benefits and life insurance as part of the career enhancements.
What About Career Outlook for the Future?
Let’s face the facts, crime is never going to go away unless you live in Singapore. Crime rates in New York continue to rise so there will always be a demand for trained police officers and law enforcement officers. Especially with the recent rise of New York Foreclosures The downside being that with the current economy the way it is, there are continuing cut-backs so where opportunities arise, economic cut-backs soon take their toll.
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