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How do I know Criminal Justice is the correct career path for me?
As a 17 year old girl who has esperienced Chicago violence, I am interested in becoming a detective. I would like to hear from someone who has a similar experience.
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Jan’s Answer
Being a detective is a worthy ambition. I was one for over half my career
BUT, you have to start out in uniform to build your database of knowledge. Try to get a degree first, but sometimes that isn't required.
Get involved in a police Explorer program. That will be a good start.
Try to find a small department to get your start.
BUT, you have to start out in uniform to build your database of knowledge. Try to get a degree first, but sometimes that isn't required.
Get involved in a police Explorer program. That will be a good start.
Try to find a small department to get your start.
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Hello! I'm sorry you've experience violence of any sort, and I know that can often shape our goals and career paths.
I spent over a decade as a detective, with fifteen years total in law enforcement. To be a detective with a police agency, you will have to start as a patrol officer. Typically, most police agencies would like you to work 2-5 years on patrol before they allow you to apply for a detective position. Officer with a stellar reputation for hard work, treating people with respect, and going above and beyond the minimum are the ones who get promoted to a detective unit.
Some departments have divisions: robbery, homicide, fraud, etc. Smaller agencies tend to break investigations into crimes against persons and property crimes. I worked with a medium sized department, and I was part of their Special Victims Unit (SVU). I worked primarily crimes against children (child abuse--both physical and sexual--and neglect), though, if I was the one on call and a different sort of crime were reported, I would still respond to that.
I recommend doing a ride along with your local police department. See what they deal with on a regular shift. If you can ride along at bar closing time on a Friday or Saturday night, you'll see some wild things! Maybe you can volunteer with them to get your foot in the door. Some departments do something called a "Citizen's Police Academy" as a way for the public to see all aspects of Law Enforcement, and those can be a great learning tool. Most departments prefer an applicant have a college degree or military experience. Good luck to you in your pursuits!
I spent over a decade as a detective, with fifteen years total in law enforcement. To be a detective with a police agency, you will have to start as a patrol officer. Typically, most police agencies would like you to work 2-5 years on patrol before they allow you to apply for a detective position. Officer with a stellar reputation for hard work, treating people with respect, and going above and beyond the minimum are the ones who get promoted to a detective unit.
Some departments have divisions: robbery, homicide, fraud, etc. Smaller agencies tend to break investigations into crimes against persons and property crimes. I worked with a medium sized department, and I was part of their Special Victims Unit (SVU). I worked primarily crimes against children (child abuse--both physical and sexual--and neglect), though, if I was the one on call and a different sort of crime were reported, I would still respond to that.
I recommend doing a ride along with your local police department. See what they deal with on a regular shift. If you can ride along at bar closing time on a Friday or Saturday night, you'll see some wild things! Maybe you can volunteer with them to get your foot in the door. Some departments do something called a "Citizen's Police Academy" as a way for the public to see all aspects of Law Enforcement, and those can be a great learning tool. Most departments prefer an applicant have a college degree or military experience. Good luck to you in your pursuits!