I've got two choices ahead of me that I need to decide on rather quickly.  I figured I'd ask those who are in law enforcement.   1st choice--pay to send myself to be POST certified then apply at either a sheriffs office or PD or 2nd choice--I've already got a job lined up at a Sheriffs office that I'll start out as a detention officer in the jail and then eventually be POST certified and put on patrol within a year.  What are the advantages/disadvantages in these decisions??  Most police departments around the atlanta area(with the exception of Atlanta Police) are interested in hiring POST certified officers.  thanks

Take the detention officer job - it's good experience for the street and you'll get paid to go to school.  Only thing is I would get the POST academy w/in 1 year in writing.....

Brian

If you don't already have LE experience, corrections is a great place to learn to deal with the CHUDs you'll encounter on the streets and how to handle being in a postition of authority - all in a safer, more controlled environment.

Take the detention job for a year. Let them pay you. Keep your eyes and mind open. Watch all your co-workers/supervisors. You'll learn plenty. Be careful w your own safety. If you take the patrol job later, many things about it won't be nearly as strange to you. Good luck & Stay safe.

Quoted: Take the detention officer job - it's good experience for the street and you'll get paid to go to school.  Only thing is I would get the POST academy w/in 1 year in writing..... Brian

+1.......its good experience for working the road

+1 on the detention gig.  I never worked in the jail and wish I had, would've been great experience.

Sounds like I'll take the DO job...thanks for all your help!