Police Officer and Detective Training

Police officers and detectives respond to domestic disturbances, crime scenes, issue citations and apprehended suspects. They investigate crime and traffic accidents. Police enforce traffic regulations and file police reports.

Police Officer Duties

The major role of the police is to maintain order, keep the peace and enforce the law. When a crime is committed, it is the primarily role of the police officer (the first line of defense in crime prevention) to secure the crime scene to prevent further crime or injury to the public. They conduct initial investigations, issue citations, charge and apprehend suspects if necessary. Police have the legal authority to arrest, usually granted by magistrates. Police officers also respond and assist in emergency calls, and assist in disasters either natural or man made.

Most police organizations have a military structure, with the top level starting with the Police Commissioner, the Police Chief, Detectives and Investigators, to Police Captains, Lieutenants, Sergeants and patrol officers.

A career as a police officer and/or detective is a very exiting and rewarding career. However, it takes a special type of person to be a law enforcement officer. First you have to really want to do it. Most police officers will tell you that they chose their careers because they felt a need to serve. There are some who get into the field of law enforcement for excitement or prestige. But they usually don't last long, because being a good police officer is about loyalty, commitment and the desire to serve others.

Most police organizations require a two year education or an Associates Degree to become a police officer. In some cases you don't need a degree but you should have some form of post-secondary education. Most officers are also required to take a police exam and attend a structured police academy. The training is tough, but the reward is all worth it.

Detective Duties

Detectives and criminal investigators gather facts and collect evidence of possible crimes. This evidence is processed and provided or given to the local prosecutor, who's job is to determine if a crime has been committed and if so, the prosecutor is responsible filing charges and indictments against the suspected perpetrators. Even after charges have been formally charged or a case has gone to court, detectives and investigators may still work to gather facts and collect evidence for criminal cases and the courts. They conduct interviews, examine records, observe and record the activities of suspects. Most detectives are specialize in investigating one type of crime like homicide or fraud.