NCJ Number
214170
Date Published
2006
Length
136 pages
Annotation
This book offers advice on how to become a successful police officer.
Abstract
Nine chapters walk the reader through tips for getting into the law enforcement business, the application and interview process, and issues related to surviving and thriving as a police officer. Chapter 1 describes the reality of law enforcement work, which includes night and holiday work, and helps readers determine whether a career in law enforcement is the right choice. Chapter 2 focuses on tips for getting into the business and advises readers that law enforcement work is not simply a job it is a lifestyle. Chapter 3 details the application and interview process for becoming a police officer while chapter 4 discusses how to build a strong law enforcement foundation by reading about law enforcement issues every day. Chapter 5 focuses on the importance and difficulty of choosing a good role model, chapter 6 describes a patrol philosophy that should be adopted by new officers, and chapter 7 explores the impact of politics on law enforcement work. The patrol philosophy outlined in chapter 6 focuses on how officers should complete their duties, balance activities during patrol downtime, and advises on how to use discretion reasonably. In chapter 8 the author turns to a consideration of the impact of law enforcement work on the physical and emotional health of officers, focusing on survival techniques for officer well-being. Chapter 9 takes up the topic of off-duty considerations, such as how to handle citizens who approach during off-duty hours. Officers are advised not to carry a gun while off-duty and to avoid consuming too much alcohol while off-duty. At the end of each chapter is a listing of tips and tools that summarizes the main points of the chapters. “Wise words” from police officers with many years of experience complete the book. Sources, index