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Overview:
Police work exists in many forms, including sheriffs, state troopers, bailiffs, and detectives. Many officers specialize in a particular aspect of law enforcement or investigation, and most are assigned to patrol a specific area. As police officers rise in rank, their duties become more specialized.
Role:
The main responsibilities of a police officer are to keep public order and to protect lives and property. Officers are expected to exercise authority, whether on or off duty.
Qualifications:
Candidates must be U.S. citizens at least 20 years of age, and must meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications. Physical examinations include tests of vision, hearing, strength and agility. Eligibility is also determined by performance in written exams as well as previous education and experience.
Characteristics such as honesty, sound judgment, integrity, and a sense of responsibility are especially important in law enforcement. Thus, candidates are interviewed by senior officers, and their character traits and backgrounds are investigated. In some agencies, candidates are interviewed by a psychiatrist or a psychologist, or given a personality test.
Qualifications and eligibility vary by agency and department, but emphasis is placed on these factors.
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