Increasing the chances

[fyrfyter22]

Hi,
I am interested in going into law enforcement but I am not sure I have a very fair chance considering I am female, and pretty small. We do however have one deputy in my area who is a lot like me in build, so I am hoping I at least have a chance. So far I have taken almost 2 years of criminal justice without the academy and I did some police defense tactics trainings with the sheriff dept. I am finishing up my degree in CJ and I have a big project at the end of the semester so I am planning on seeing if I can spend some time with the deputies doing ride alongs or whatever else they will allow me to do. I am also planning on starting Aikido, and in the summer I am going to be vollunteering for the precincts foot patrol as well as going through the ACO academy for animal control. I have vollunteerd at the fire dept. for the past 6 years so I also have some expirience in emergency services.

Is there anything else I can do to prepare for the police academy or that could increase my chances of getting into LE? Would they be able to deny hiring me based on gender or build if I was able to pass the physical exam? Even if I did get hired, do the male officers usually discriminate against the female officers? (this has been a big problem where I live)

[gabe a.]

Would they be able to deny hiring me based on gender or build if I was able to pass the physical exam? Even if I did get hired, do the male officers usually discriminate against the female officers? (this has been a big problem where I live)

Not legally, to either scenario. You sound pretty marketable to a department, depending on your background. And the gender/size thing will only be a problem for you if you think it is one, if you have confidence in your self and your abilities then it will not hinder your chances in the slightest. Good luck!!

[Kenpokev]

Attitude is everything. Martial arts training will ultimately help you, though Aikido tends to be a bit tedious to learn and often focuses on movements that require fine-motor skills. PM me or Samuel for more info in that regard.

Due to Federal Labor Laws, there are limits to the screening process for females. More importantly though, is can you take care of business if needed and go home at the end of your shift. Equal to that, can you help your partner.

I have two "pixies" that I work with. One of which darn near broke my wrist in DT's (made me very proud) She can open a can of whoopass pretty quick and suspects read that very fast in the field. She's also got great communication skills and usually charms the cuffs on 'em. Good cop.

[CHPCHASER]

Contrary to what you might think, the fact you are female will probably help you. Females in our department usually get through the process faster and have a better chance of getting picked up. Command presence is very important. If you are smaller, you need to make up for it with confidence. That will be a big factor in your interview. Martial arts are great, but don’t expect to hold your own with a 6’3” 250 pound male. My wife is also a cop, I hate to say it but I like the fact that she is a fast runner and a good shot. You sound like the type of recruit most departments are looking for. Just stay out of trouble, keep your credit clean and stay in shape. Good luck!!