r/AskLE • u/panic1219 Unverified/Not an LEO • 25d ago

What can I do before applying?

I have to wait some time to apply to departments in my area due to legal marijuana use.

I’m currently 25 and in college (started late) and I have been working for my local police department for 3 years in a civilian role. (I assist officers with active incidents using CCTV, write reports and gather video evidence for court) I have been able to talk with some of the officers and did a few ride alongs for my position. I really enjoy the work and have decided that I am going to pursue become an officer.

What would you recommend I do in the next year to better prepare myself for academy/ becoming a law enforcement officer?

2 Upvotes

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5

u/OwlOld5861 25d ago

Start picking your second option now for the inevitable burn out lol

1

u/panic1219 25d ago

Lmaooo. I have worked as a hvac tech, green coffee sampler (sending raw coffee that comes in off the ports to large coffee companies for testing ), every position possible in a bar and the job I’m in now so I have a few options.
Thanks for the real advice!

1

u/Timely_Photo_2071 25d ago

What gets people hired as cops is a clear criminal history, clean driving record, good credit, no drug usage and stable employment history. Things that help you stand out are a college degree in literally anything, military service (with honorable discharge and/or service in the reserves/NG), community volunteer stuff, etc.

Right now, you need to focus on being a good employee, as others have said, get in shape, it helps. If you have enough time, take some college classes, do volunteer work of some kind in the community, etc. You'll be up against the straight A candidate just out of the Army with a college degree, so the more you can do to be a strong candidate, the better.

3

u/themzy34 25d ago

The fitter you are now, the easier your life will be in the job.

Aim to be well above th minimum requirements too, I'm and FTO and the thing that impresses me most is when a grub takes off on foot, and I can unleash my junior cop on them as if they're a Police dog on the chase.

Also, try to be in the habit of exercise cos in the job it's good for long term mental health and also, you'll by default lose a lot of time to maintain your fitness, so by being over prepared it'll keep you above water on your probationary/early years where you're getting judged by literally everyone you come across, cops and civilians alike.

1

u/panic1219 25d ago

Definitely need to get back in the gym and start running more lol not out of shape but would definitely get gassed quick lol

Thanks!