Law Enforcement Officer
What does a Law Enforcement Officer do?
Law Enforcement Officers are responsible for protecting life and property,
and preserving the peace. They enforce laws and maintain order. They work to
prevent crimes, investigate complaints and crimes, apprehend violators, and
assist in prosecutions of criminals. City and county officers spend considerable
time on peace-keeping tasks such as resolving family disputes.
Police officers are employed by city, county, state, and federal agencies in:
City, county, and state agencies are: Sheriff Departments, District Attorney
Offices, District Police Departments, Harbor Police Departments, Municipal
Police (City, County and District) Departments, Transit District Police
Departments, School District Police, Departments, University Police Departments,
Community College District Police Departments, Marshall Department, Park
District Departments, Airport District Police Departments, Coroners Department,
Housing Authority Police, Railroad Police. Federal law enforcement agencies are:
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Immigration and Naturalization Service
(INS) of the U.S. Department of Justice Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Treasury
Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF)
Preparation:
A high school diploma or GED is required by law in most states. Employers
usually require passing of competitive exams which test for reading and writing
skills, aptitudes, attitudes, physical condition, and general health. An
increasing number of entry- level Police Officers have some college training.
Many community colleges are certified by the state to present the Basic Peace
Officer Standards and Training (POST) Academy. Most police departments require
completion of post. This is not always required but is increasingly preferred.
Psychological suitability is examined. More than higher education, supervisors
emphasize a personality that can withstand the stress and demands of the job.
Each applicant is examined on an individual basis. Applicants with felony
convictions are disqualified by law in most states, but misdemeanor convictions
do not absolutely disqualify anyone. Volunteer service as a cadet or reserve is
advisable. Military training is a plus. Experience as a Security Guard may also
be helpful. A few employers hire at the minimum age of 18, while most hire at
21. All applicants must be of good moral character and must have a fingerprint
and background record check. All city and county Peace Officers attend and
complete the basic Peace Officer Standards and Training Academy (POST) and
receive on-the-job instruction.
Educational Program(s):
Criminal Justice
Related Programs: Political Science, Sociology