Police Officer

Police Officer

BlueSheepdog

10 Years Experience

Around the Way, FL

Male, 40

Cheating death and fighting communism: that is how a fellow officer once described our job. It was meant to be funny, but as time went on it seemed all too true.

I spent more than ten years in law enforcement, all of it on the street in uniform patrol. I've been a patrol officer, instructor, sergeant and lieutenant.

Do not report crimes here. Nothing here should be considered legal advice. All opinions are my own.

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Last Answer on October 29, 2014

Best Rated

Why don't people ever have lawyers while being interrogated on TV? I know TV isn't always accurate, but is there a reason why there's never an attorney? (Except for in court)

Asked by Jacob over 11 years ago

TV and the movies rarely portray law enforcement (or anything else for that matter) in a realistic manner.  Even the so-called reality shows are heavily edited to present what the network wants to show you.

As for their reasoning...well it all revolves around $$$.  The better the story, the more viewers they get.  More viewers = more advertising dollars.  Everything on TV is about making money.  That is the reason why "news" programs are sensationalistic rather than objective.

Once I accidentally set off my home alarm. I missed the alarm co. phone call so the police were sent. What is the best place to be in this situation so the officer won't be caught of guard when he sees me? Hands-up? Outside?

Asked by DDG over 11 years ago

I'd call the PD and let them know I was the homeowner and had accidentally set off the alarm.  That way the officers know to expect someone when they get there.  I would wait for them outside, and I would have a driver's license (or other ID with my address) to show them I was the homeowner.

I just started dating an officer. After 4 dates he wants my last name, race, and asked if I am up late at night. Not your usual question I'm sure, but what comes to mind is that he is trying to look me up. What are your thoughts?

Asked by ccmot over 11 years ago

There is no way for me to know why he has asked these things.  However, these are my immediate thoughts:

1.  I'd find it really odd if I had been on four dates with someone and did not know their last name.

2.  It would be really odd if I had been on four dates with someone and wasn't able to figure out her race.

3.  What time of day you are up has nothing to do with checking someone's background or history.

4.  If you are uncomfortable with the guy, consider dumping him and moving on.

I have wanted to become a police officer since I was a child, however I also want to go to university, so I wanted to get a degree that would help. What degree would you recommend?

Asked by Jimmy over 11 years ago

Contact the department you wish to work for and see if they require a degree.  I would recommend the least expensive degree possible, as they will largely be useless in law enforcement.  You can read through my prior answers for additional information on college degrees and law enforcement.

Can shoplifting a candy bar at 14 prevent me from becoming an officer? I am now 25, I have dual degrees in economics and biochemistry and I am entering my third year of service in the Air force. I haven't been in any other legal troubles.

Asked by John over 11 years ago

It should not be a major issue.  Make sure you are honest about the incident when applying.  Any attempt to conceal or minimize the incident will indicate a lack of honesty.  Questions about honesty will absolutely destroy your shot at being hired.

whats are some punishments that a minor may face if he or she breaks the law?

Asked by Alias over 11 years ago

Anything from a small fine to a lifetime of incarceration depending on the nature of the crime.

can i go to go if they call me in as a missing person since im 18

Asked by maria over 11 years ago

Most 18 year olds are considered an adult.  You can still be reported as a missing person.

If you want to avoid problems, you should act like an adult and tell your parents that you are fine, but you have moved out.

If you fall into a variety of special categories (such as under court order), you might not be able to move out.  Chances are you would know if one of those applied to you.

If you have additional questions, you should contact an attorney or the local law enforcement agency.