Posted: 10/23/2006 9:41:26 PM EDT
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Ok, Here we go. I'm currently an 18yo male attending school at ITT in Warrensville Hts, Ohio. I've always wanted to do something with my life that left me with a sense of fullfillment, a chance to make a difference, a chance to change peoples lives and help them. A chance to make the world a better place for family, friends, and the general public alike. The idea of being a LEO or possibly a detective has always been in the back of my mind. These ideas have gradually started to drift twords the back of my mind when I became interested in computers, and technology. I secured a job at a computer store some four years ago and have been there ever since. I have handled everything from fixing home computers, to handling and setting up large purchases and server applications for corportations in the hundred of thousands of dollars. I know windows, linux, unix, and all windows server platforms like the back of my hand. Make no mistake, I am definately not some shrimpy nerd that would not make it or be pushed around in the field of LE. I had finally chalked these dreams up to a loss and started attending school for something I knew, and was good at, which is currently a major in CNS (Computer Networking Systems) at ITT. Until recently I had been happy with this, until the facility I attend school at started offering a Criminology major. Its not too late to change my major, I'm haven't even finished a full quarter at the school as of today. My questions is, what kind of education, and/or training would someone need to secure a position in the field of LE. I have no police record, and I have never been in any kind of trouble in my entire life, EVER. Would a major in criminology be enough? Would I be sent to a "Police Academy" after finishing my schooling? Also, what kind of physical shape is recommended for a LEO? The next set of questions involves the kind of gear I would be allowed to use. How does the application of NFA firearms work in the world of a LEO? From what I have heard you are allowed to own these weapons without going through a permit with the BATF. Would I be allowed to carry a custom firearm I have build in the trunk of my patrol car? Would I be allowed to provide a riot/tactical vest to keep in my vehicle if the need were to arise? I currently have a tactical vest with armor inserts at the moment that I would love to be able to use. Also, would I be able to provide my own sidearm for this job? I am assuming all this comes down to "it depends on the precinct you work in". Make no mistake, this is far from the reason I am considering this as a line of work, it is simply a perk I am greatly looking forward to. Any information anyone reading this could provide would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks, Nick |
| I've been digging around this part of the forums and have already gleaned some good information. Thought I would throw this in for good measure. I grew up in the Cleveland area until my family moved out to Lyndhurst (nice, crime free suburb). If anyone knows the Cleveland area you are undoubtedly familiar with the area that is "Coventry". I spend alot of time down there with friends, have good friends that work at the local pizza shop. Anyways, I see "deals" go down there every day, and not just drugs. I have had members of my family taken down so far by drugs and crime there is no saving them, and to once again reiterate my statement in my first post, I am really adiment about trying to make the world a better place for everyone. |
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Well... If you want to change the world, find a different job. Go splice genes or something. You really aren't gonna change anything as a street cop, or a detective. Ya, you'll make a few people happy and recover a stolen car every now and then, but in the grand scheme of things you really aren't gonna make a dent. I look at it this way. I'm a type A personality for sure. I like working, and being active. If you are self motivated, like an adrenaline rush every now and then, and are a night owl, this job is for you. As for the weapons questions, it really depends where you work. Most places I know of around here won't let you carry your own long gun or side arm. You can carry just about anything as a BUG as long as it is safe and in good working order. For the physical stuff. You shouldn't even worry about that. You should be in good enough shape that you can pass anybody's test w/o breaking a sweat. I see so many cops that let themselves go to shit, and it's really sad. 
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I think most of your questions are covered here: www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=1&f=76&t=331405
The FA toys are reserved for the special units (SWAT, Warrant fugitive, etc) and are 99.999% issued to the officers on those units by the department. The weapons are registered to, owned by and property of the department... not the officer. Patrol rifles (semi auto) can be either provided by the department or purchased and maintained by the officer depending on policy. Keep in mind, it takes years of hard work to get on these details. Depending on the size of the department, slots for these positions are very competitive. You have to "pay your dues" in the jail (for sheriff's depts) or patrol or both. Some of my partners have been waiting/trying out for over 5 years. If you are signing up to "run and gun" you might want to consider another field. Most of your time will be filling out paper, arresting drunks, responding to alarms and being the world's parent. Good luck in your journey. |
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| You started working at a computer store when you were 14?, and you have 3 years to go before you could even own a handgun or NFA firearm. At least you are planning ahead. I am sure LEdepts. need people with computer backgrounds to enforce software copyright violations and such. |