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Will becoming a police officer make me shoot someone?

I want to be a police officer, and then go up to either become an FBI agent or a homicide detective (considering I pass all exams). I read I have to be a cop first before becoming a detective and have some type of experience to become an FBI agent. The thing is though, I really don't -and I mean at all- want to shoot someone, yet I don't want to be stuck in an office. I know circumstances change what one does, and I know I have to protect others and myself from dangers, yet I don't want to be caught up in it. If curcumstances are called for it, I could maybe shoot someone, but my biggest fear is killing someone even if it is for something like defending mysef or others. Does anyone in the law enforcement force been through this? If this is my fear, then should I change career? Will becoming an FBI agent make me do the same thing?

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Debbie’s Answer

Public service is a noble career choice. My dad was in law enforcement for 51 years. He’s retired now. I grew up in law enforcement family and we still have friends who serve as police officers, work in the FBI and serve as first responders. There are so many important roles within a police department that are civil positions. I would encourage you to explore those options. Even jobs within the court system may be of some interest for you. Serving as a law enforcement officer can be very rewarding but it is also very physically, mentally and emotionally demanding. Every role in the department is necessary to keep people safe. You may be able to achieve the same rewarding feeling doing something that doesn’t require you to be in the line of danger. Working in evidence, being a 911 operator, public safety educator, crime scene photographer. The possibilities are endless. Best of luck in your future endeavors and thank you in advance for your service!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Amy
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David’s Answer

Even though I'm not personally engaged in law enforcement, I have friends in the sector who've shared the realities of such a role. Amy, if you decide to step into the law enforcement world, particularly a role that puts you on the front line, be prepared that you may have to use force, even a firearm, if circumstances demand. The training academy will equip you for such situations. If the fear of potentially causing harm to someone is overwhelming, you might want to consider a law enforcement department that doesn't require fieldwork. In extreme cases, you may want to explore other career paths. Law enforcement can be challenging due to the daily risks involved. You must be ready to fully commit if you aspire to join the FBI. I hope this guidance is helpful. Best of luck!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Amy
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David’s Answer

You’ll receive a wide variety of training across many subjects but it won’t make you want to shoot people. You will also be evaluated quite often
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice, David. Amy
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Kim’s Answer

Amy,

As a police officer, you are not making a decision to shoot someone. They are the ones making the decision to get shot. I know it might just sound like semantics, but, that's the reality. The will to live is strong. You will do what you have been trained to do, without even thinking about it. Why? Because there is no time to think. You will act from instinct.

I think dealing with it afterwards may be difficult, but, thankfully, never had to deal with that. In fact, most cops go their entire career without shooting anyone. So, the odds are in your favor that this would include you. However, you MUST be ready, willing, and able to pull the trigger if necessary. And, there's no such thing as trying to place your shot so as to only wound rather than kill. The adrenalin is pumping so hard you will do what you have been trained to do - place your shots "center mass." This results in the greatest likelihood of stopping the perpetrator with the fewest number of shots, as well as reduces the likelihood of missing.

If you cannot do this, without hesitation, someone else might get killed. A civilian, or even you partner. You will be asked about this when you apply. If you answer honestly, you will not be hired. And, you should not lie. They will ask you on the polygraph if you lied about anything on your application. . .

I encourage you to find what it is that interests you about law enforcement, and then find a job that fulfills that need without having to carry a gun.

I'm sorry this is not what you want to hear, but, hope it somehow helps.
Kim
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice. Amy
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