How old is too old?

[Kenpokev]

Greetings,

I recently had a discussion with several friends in our SO about the possibility of hiring on. I have been connected with the department for several years as a volunteer DT instructor. I'm at that magical age of 45, when most males start re-evaluating what they are doing in their careers and life. The home life is squared away, as is financial security, but I've always had a passion for law enforcement.

I am interested in some opinions from active LEO's (particularly those of a more seasoned age ) about the thoughts of a major career change into LE. I have no doubt I can pass the physical side and I understand the "dues" period of jail duty for a year or more in the beginning.

One of my primary questions though, am I too old?

Thanks in advance for your input.

Respectfully,

KK

[replay]

I don't know what's too old for your area or your departments, but we had a 39, 40, and 41 year old graduate from our academy this summer.

[Kenpokev]

Replay,
Thanks for the note. How are those new officers doing? I assume they are in some form of probationary status and or in a FTO slot. Any feedback on their success or shortcomings?

Thanks

[richjorg]

This is cool I posted it here before (I think). Its about an older guy on the Oxnard, CA PD

http://www.oxnardpd.org/recruiting/agelimit.htm

[Stump]

NY's age limit is 35. Sorry!

[zander_zye]

With the exception of the CHP, I don't think many departments in CA have a maximum age limit for starting. Of course, for the most part, you have to have 20 years in to qualify for a pension (which isn't that great after only 20 years). For an actual sworn officer, that means you can usually be no more than 45. I think (and I am not sure of this) - a correctional officer can stay on until they are 70.

But think about it - how many 60 year olds are in shape enough to chase down criminals or deal with dirtbags in jail? It is a tough job -- that is why most officers that I know retire at between 50-55 (my bro is counting down the years - only 6 more - until he can retire at 50 with 90% of his base pay for life).

[Kenpokev]

:D

I have to chuckle about the physical condition aspects. As I mentioned, I am a DT instructor and I just ran through a class, with all but a few folks being around my age. Not that I'm an Olympic caliber athlete, but I'm in better shape than the majority of officers I just certified. I have been actively training and teaching for 20+ years. 5'10", 175, 4th Dan.

As far as I have determined, there is no age restriction in the department. I'm just feeling out opinions from you folks concerning the issues I might face as a mature fellow entering the field.

I may start the application process next week. I know most of the brass, so I'll get early feedback on my prospects fairly quickly.

richjorg: Thanks again for that great link.

Cheers,

KK

[zander_zye]

Of course there are exceptions - I have met some 70 year olds that could make me look silly at the gym. (and I am only 42) -

[Rad Diver]

I currently have a classmate who is 61 yoa. He has had previous le experience, however many years ago. He like a timex: takes a licking, but gives one also, and keeps on ticking!

[replay]

The 39, 40, and 41 year olds I don't know too much about how they're doing. One was from a different department and we parted ways after graduation. Another one, who had 20 years in the Air Force, resigned after the 1st week, supposedly for family reasons/family emergency, but I don't know the full details. The other 'senior' is doing just fine right now and is actually ahead of our group of Phase 1 folks.

[sbrad]

Bro.
If you're going strong as a DT instructor at 45, I say go for it. I had a DT class not long ago and a guy about your age kicked my *** for 4 days.
Also, you may be a real asset to a smaller department that doesn't have any DT instructors.

[Kenpokev]

Follow-up.

Well, I've had a few more discussions with family and some senior department members. For the most part, the general suggestion is to go for it. It's also nice having an LT tell you that you would be a valuable member of the agency. I have a strong financial background, along with pretty sufficient problem solving skills. The usual grunt time is fairly limited right now as a result of attrition, so the timings pretty good for me.

Thanks again for your input. More later as the journey continues

Cheers,

KK

[wolve]

Honestly its never to old for you if you seriously want to get in this field. some agencies of course have an age limit.

[sw2copgirl]

I was 47 when I applied to my department, not sure if my age would be a negative thing. I was hired, beating out some young bucks.

Unless you know up front about departmental age limits, go for it. You have nothing to lose.

[Kenpokev]

Lunch with the BIG Boss tomorrow. Will have definite information at that time. More tomorrow.

Thanks for all the encouragement!