LEO opinions: Reserve Police Officers

[Scoop]

If the vast majority of the full time officers treat their reserve officer counterparts like low class morons, then what happens to the moral of the entire department? Why would I want to work with someone with a "holier than thou" attitude?

There that's better, let's get rid of that irrelevant point about money.

There was a valid point to the money reference. I have been in situations where people, who make less money than I, have treated me like a moron because of the monetary difference. Or, as another example, the woman who works the cash register at the gas station who turns your gas pump off because you walk five feet away to get a paper towel (she's using her "authority" to "show you" who is REALLY in charge).

Anyways ... forget the money comment, I'm not interested in that.

I do appreciate your info. I am *certainly* in the mindset of "I don't know **** (street-wise) and will be the FIRST to admit it and follow the (good) advice of the wise oracles of the street. I know what it's like -- I'm in the same position, only in REVERSE, in my field and in my current profession. I am a mentor and I deal with college kids who think they "know it all" from school, but they know NOTHING about real (business) world experience.

Again, thank you for the solid advice. I will keep it in mind. It is excellent advice.

[resqr1]

I am a reserve, also. We had/have to pay for EVERYTHING except the vehicle and portable radio. Our training was not as long as the full timers, but we had to learn the exact same things. I've been on for four years and quite honestly I enjoy it. Sure we had some guys that absolutely hated reserves, but guess what? They're gone and I'm still here. I think everybody that's left appreciates what we do. My class had ten people in it. Two are left. Some went full time, some gave up and didn't want to deal with the a--holes. I kind of enjoy making people who hate me squirm, so I stayed and actually requested their shift...sometimes. You will be amazed at how stupid some cops can be. I highly recommend your endeavor as a reserve. If for nothing else, it will give you some insight into the department and your decision to change careers will be much easier. I am actually considering making the transition to full time.

[Soon2bRookie]

I have been a reserve at my department for going on 6 months now. When i came out of the academy, I had and still have 2 job opportunities with the other 2 departments here. I am only working as a reserve right now so i can finish up my BA degree. From my experience with the F/T officers, they show me no resentment for the work i have done. THere is so many opportunities for overtime here that i am not taking any time away from them. We are there to supplement the full time officers when needed. We have the same powers on/off duty, uniforms, equipment,training etc. I have backed-up many of the officers on patrol when i have gone out and they have told me that they appreciated me being there. I am good friends with many of the F/T oficers and have experienced no negativity. I have even made several arrests and been told "good job" by the officers and higher up brass. Not sure if this helps, but it is my experience. When i finish my degree in a year, i will go full time for the city police department.