Posted by armystrong916

hello i am currently a service member in the us army and i’m coming up on my ets (exit the service date) and i have always wanted to get into law inforcement. I am wrighting to find out what all is needed to become a law inforcement officer and also what the hire rate is averagely. Any help would be appreciated.

Dear armystrong916,

First, I’d like to thank you for your selfless service in protecting our country and the great Americans who live here. As for a career in law enforcement, because it is a paramilitary career, you will find it a little easier as far as the structure, chain-of-command configuration, wear of the uniform, working with others from all backgrounds, etc. Most departments require some college. You can go to our website to see what our requirements are at www.sacpd.org. My advice to you is to sign up for college whether it be online or at an institution. Some accelerated programs, although they can be costly, transfer your military experience as college credits. Look into your VA benefits to see if you qualify for the GI Bill. Our department accepts the GI bill as payment while going through our academy. I don’t know whether you are going right into the Ready Reserves or the National Guard directly after active duty, but you may have some benefits there as well. I went through the police academy while in the reserves. Explain to your company commander what your intentions are. I also had soldiers who were going through police training while I was a company commander. I worked with their schedules as long as I knew in advance.

There are departments that don’t require any education past high school. The Sacramento Sheriff Department currently hires those with no degree. However, most departments are having the same financial constraints because of budget woes. You must be marketable and a degree certainly helps. Your army training is definitely a bonus, but unfortunately that experience alone is not going to get you a police job.

I would also go on a ride-along with a department; and I don’t mean with the Military Police. Go with a civilian agency that is close to your base. If you are interested in the Sacramento Police Department, you can download an application and fill it out on line.

I wish you success in your endeavors, and I hope that your transition into becoming a civilian again is easy for you. I hope this helps.

Officer Michelle