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

In the state of arkansas can a 17 year old move out of her parents house and can the cops do anything about it since she is close enough to 18

Asked by brooklyn over 11 years ago

I do not know what the age of majority is in Arkansas.  You should probably contact the local law enforcement agency.

Oh, and "close enough" is not a legal term that will be recognized by a court or law enforcement officer.

(Continued) What do you recommend I do? Are there careers out their that involve law enforcement where my degree will be more useful? And do you think it's worth it to do into Law Enf. if I'm used to a high salary? Thanks for your service.

Asked by Ross almost 11 years ago

Only you can make the decision on what to do.  If you want to be a police officer, be a police officer.  If money is a motivating factor, try private enterprise.  Neither the Navy nor police work is a path to riches.  If a LT's salary is considered "high," you might be surprised at what is available if you started your own business or used your degree & experience to land a good career in the private sector.

If you are looking for the best salary in law enforcement, take a look at the federal agencies.  Local departments in the northeast and west coast pay the best, but also have outrageous taxes and costs of living.

Can off duty officer call in on duty officer to issue speeding ticket without showing ID to driver? Can off duty officer leave scene (when on duty office arrives) and not sign ticket. How far does an officer have to track to issue speeding ticket?

Asked by Steve Davis over 11 years ago

It depends on the laws of your state.  If I understand your question, it is legal for one officer to issue a citation based on another officer's observations (in at least some states - if not all states.)

I've been seeing a girl and if we have a disagreement she uses her sister's officer position as a shield. Is that legal and what do I do?

Asked by Derrick almost 12 years ago

I'm not sure what you mean by "using her sister's officer position as a shield."  Regardless, it would appear you need to find another girlfriend.

My question can a Muslim woman be a cop if she is citizen? And she also wear hijab

Asked by Dina almost 12 years ago

First question - Absolutely.  There are no prohibitions or requirements for any specific religion or absense thereof to be a police officer.  Of course, any religious biases that prevent you from impartially and effectively enforcing the laws of your state should prevent you from pursuing a career in law enforcement.  For example, if you believe sharia law trumps the laws of your state, you have no place in police work.

Second question - I sure hope rules are not changed to allow police officers to wear a hijab.  Police officers are required to wear uniforms, and that means a standard way of dressing.  Clothing visibly worn for religious purposes should not be part of a police officer's uniform.  A law enforcement officer is expected to impartially enforce the law for all citizens, and when there is an obvious bias it undermines the public's trust in the officer and agency.

If you believe you should be able to wear a hijab at work, then law enforcement is not the job for you.  

Keep in mind that the nature of law enforcement does not allow you to regularly take off holy days.  This is the same for Christians have to work Easter, and Jews who work on Yom Kippur.

Faith is very important, and if your faith will cause you conflict in a law enforcement career, you might want to consider an alternative job path.

Is there a ticket or fine for leaving my bumper and license on the street?

Asked by Sean over 11 years ago

Possibly.  You should probably inquire with your local law enforcement agency.

What if you tell a police officer you're suicidal?

Asked by Lacie almost 12 years ago

Laws in different states dictate what actions may be required of a police officer, but in general terms he or she would talk to you and try to determine if there was some way to help you.  In some cases, a police officer may be required to take a suicidal person to a hospital or other medical facility if the person poses a risk to anyone.  

If you or someone you know is depressed or suicidal, there are people who can help.  Call 1-800-273-8255 from anywhere in the US and they can provide assistance.  Alternatively anyone can go to a hospital an explain that they are having some problems and need help.