A different perspective

A different perspective

 

For all the brave individuals who have chosen to wear a police uniform, I commend you for selecting an exciting career. To say that your lives will not change dramatically would be disingenuous. Your decision to pursue a career in law enforcement speaks volumes. Some believe that police work is a calling based on their childhood experiences. Although backgrounds vary, law enforcement officers universally desire to help others. At the same time, many were drawn to law enforcement for ulterior motives.

 

As expected, the law enforcement profession grants its members a significant level of societal authority. This power can be overwhelming and even intoxicating. However, it is not surprising that some individuals who were bullied in their youth intentionally chose this profession to seek revenge. Others have family members who wear the uniform and wish to follow in their footsteps. Some were inspired by watching police shows on television. Lastly, many entered this profession by chance.

 

Police officers learn the fundamentals of policing at the academy. Instructors guide them through intensive physical training and rigorous academics. Those with resilience and intellect will endure various mental challenges and physical hardships. Ultimately, they will graduate and immerse themselves in the exhilarating adrenaline rush. Words cannot capture the accompanying pulsating feeling of power. However, with that power comes responsibility, which all police officers must recognize.

 

The first few months on the job will be overwhelming. Your level of involvement will depend on the community you patrol. Additionally, the person assigned to instruct you in your role will likely be a senior officer biding their time before retirement or a squared-away young officer. Nevertheless, the message is unmistakable: "Forget what they taught you in the academy; I will teach you the right way to conduct police work!"

 

The groups of men and women you will be working with will become the most important people in your life, besides your family. For some, this new group may feel like an extension of your immediate family. Sometimes you want to talk about your day, and your family members may not understand. Fortunately, the officers in your squad will, and an invitation to go out for a cocktail will follow.

 

Initially, socializing after work shouldn’t present an immediate issue. Winding down and connecting with others can be therapeutic. In most cases, this camaraderie fosters strong bonds in a high-stress job. However, in some instances, addictive personalities can take over, and that seemingly innocent drink after work might lead to unavoidable struggles with alcoholism.

 

Drinking and law enforcement appear to be closely connected. Failing to "handle" your alcohol can lead to harassment and criticism from your colleagues. The most crucial social decision is whether to succumb to the pressure, that is, to become a functioning alcoholic or to stay an inexperienced social drinker. Each choice will leave a lasting impact on your law enforcement career. If you increase your drinking, you may invite a lifetime of challenges. Divorce, alcoholism, financial troubles, health issues, job loss, driving under the influence, and even death are potential consequences. Opting to remain responsible, unless faced with unforeseen job-related injuries, means you can anticipate a stable relationship with a partner, good health, and the chance to retire with a full pension.

 

As you progress in your career, many opportunities will arise. Most people believe that options within law enforcement are limited. However, some agencies offer various specialties, including forensics, ballistics, arson, and bomb squad. Knowing what you want to pursue is half the battle in becoming a police officer. 

 

Promotion and specialist assignments represent two of the most competitive aspects of law enforcement. Only a handful of "unique" individuals are indifferent to gaining promotions or achieving specialist status. Success in law enforcement should ideally stem from your impact on the citizens you encounter. However, the true measure of success is determined by your rank within the predominantly paramilitary organization. Titles can differ at the municipal, county, state, and federal levels.

 

Most police agencies require a promotion test, which is the fairest option. However, fewer progressive agencies prefer to control the promotional process through nepotism and cronyism instead.

 

Once promoted, the newly minted officer's days of casually hanging out and being one of the boys are over. Their primary duty now is to supervise colleagues. This shift can create a challenging transition. However, what responsibility does management hold to ensure the new supervisor’s success?

 

Management is solely responsible for preparing the new supervisor. Nevertheless, because many departments are small and close-knit, it is taken for granted that the new supervisor is ready. Management only becomes aware of an existing problem when personal relationships deteriorate and someone files a complaint. At this point, damage control must take place. Hopefully, they resolve the issue(s) and avoid litigation.

 

In most cases, management in smaller departments resolves internal issues. Conversely, problems occur in larger departments due to the many levels of bureaucracy, and ultimately, lawsuits are filed. Unfortunately, the complainant will have to endure retaliation, a hostile work environment, a lack of promotion, and the possibility of termination before the lawsuit gets to court. Remember that once the establishment feels challenged, all bets are off, and you'd better watch your back.

 

There may be a few sympathetic listeners and some vocal support. In most instances, you will find yourself isolated and alone, questioning what you’ve gotten yourself into and why. The days of happiness and eagerly anticipating work are gone. Depression, seclusion, sleepless nights, medication, and psychological therapy may become your new reality. You can likely expect less intimacy, arguments with family members, and possible suicidal thoughts.

 

If you are fortunate enough to have saved some money, you can maintain your current standard of living throughout the lengthy court process. Unfortunately, your adversaries do not share this concern; they are funded by city, state, or federal governments. The burden falls on the complainant, a.k.a. "YOU," to stay in the game. Those responsible for the problems are rarely held accountable. Be aware that they will attempt to wear you down and deplete your savings for challenging their authority. Who do you think you are?

 

I will tell you this: you are the most perceptive person in your department because you challenge the system that seeks to uphold the status quo, which fails to foster the change needed in law enforcement.

 

So, what else won't they tell you when you leave the academy? Management will never inform you that you’re just a badge number. Yes, many will go through their careers without having serious problems with their bosses. Yet, human behavior dictates that you’ll “piss off" someone, and they’ll try to get revenge on you. A lot of the bosses are just miserable individuals. They’ve become this way by advancing in the same dysfunctional system, knowing no better. Furthermore, they created the system to protect the bosses and screw the workers. My perspective may be cynical, but if you ask most police officers, especially those who aren’t favored, you will find this is the overall sentiment.

 

You might wonder how these individuals transition from being your friend and drinking buddy to ultimately becoming the quintessential "jackass." As police officers climb the ranks to management, they feel pressured to prove their worth. Some will initiate programs that benefit the community, while others will attempt to please everyone. Then some listen to the decision-makers, follow their directives, and try to keep everyone in line. Many of these individuals are lonely and insensitive. They seem unhappy, and bullying others provides them with a sense of comfort. 

 

Moreover, the uniform and the job represent their sole identity, prioritizing them above everyone else. The initial transformation takes place at the police academy. The instructors make you feel special, emphasizing that the job is everything. At no point do they tell you that you are an individual. You must always see yourself as part of the team, with the team coming first. Once you join the "team," you must uphold the team concept, which may jeopardize some friendships that took years to develop. However, in your eagerness to succeed, you will inevitably betray someone; they will not forget it.

 

As people ascend the ladder, a recurring theme is that foolishness exists across all races and genders. Since policing is predominantly a white-male profession, many individuals will mimic the same unethical behaviors and mannerisms. One might expect that as African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and women climb the ladder of success, they will exhibit compassion and empathy for those still struggling. While some may remain true to themselves, this is a rare occurrence. Each group is unique and deserves attention to avoid overgeneralization.

 

African Americans have a history of struggle with integration in predominantly white professions. They may experience "double marginality," having to choose between being accountable to their community and assimilating as police officers. For various reasons, many opt for the latter. It is troubling to witness this transformation, partly due to the inherent racism embedded in the criminal justice system. So why does this occur?

 

As previously noted, having rank is the key factor that indicates you’ve made it in law enforcement. African-American officers must fight for any progress they achieve. Some will be martyrs and never receive recognition, while others will be promoted simply because a Black officer is needed to fill a position. Make no mistake: African-American police officers will not receive the same respect and admiration as their white counterparts. Sure, you might have a Black police chief, but it’s important to understand who pulls their strings. Is it fair to say that all African-Americans sell out? No, it would be irresponsible to suggest such an idea. Finding a few who genuinely stand up for what is right is difficult. However, can you blame them? It’s a tough journey to navigate.

 

One of the most perplexing groups of police officers is the Hispanic community, which is divided into three categories based on skin color: olive, brown, or "white-passing." Although many won't acknowledge this distinction, they claim, "We are Hispanic or Latino," choosing to identify more with their culture than with a race. They experience similar internal issues related to colorism, as do African Americans. A small group of phenotypically white police officers navigates both sides of this issue. Rarely do they cry discrimination or racism; they are often hardworking individuals who seldom voice complaints to their superiors but show empathy toward other minority officers. Is this a problem? Without a doubt! There is strength in numbers. Today, it's me, but it could be you tomorrow. I cannot imagine being denied advancement or promotion and not speaking up. They should do more to highlight internal issues. Hopefully, their next slight will serve as their wake-up call. 

 

Still, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Hispanics are no different from African-American police officers once they reach the top. Some forget their roots and fail to do the right thing. Again, can you blame them for the immense pressure to succeed and retire with a decent pension?

 

The next group is women. They deserve significant recognition for their choice to enter a sexist, racist, and homophobic profession. (Note: Women in power almost invariably deny these realities). What stands out about female police officers is their ability to unite despite their differences. Their rise to upper management surpasses that of other groups. Fortunately, they emphasize the importance of upward mobility for women and express their feelings openly. They can quickly get management to listen and respond to their needs. However, it is unfortunate that some adopt the same macho persona upon assuming control. While this is not a particularly positive trait, they did not become police officers to look good for the cameras. So, are they any better than their colleagues? Some are, but the law enforcement profession changes everyone.

 

Another group I want to discuss is Asian officers. They come from diverse backgrounds but have not yet become a significant part of the law enforcement profession. They often assimilate with their white colleagues and tend to shy away from voicing any complaints about mistreatment. Often viewed as the "model minority," they unfortunately face internal pressure to uphold this status. I wish I could elaborate further, but I've only worked with one Asian officer in my twenty-five-year career. I hope recruitment efforts will concentrate on their communities. 

 

Lastly, I would be remiss not to mention white males in power in this profession. To sum up, they possess a clear advantage in all aspects of the criminal justice system. The game's rules allow them to maintain control and success at all costs. Much of their success stems from nepotism and cronyism, creating an unfair barrier for those trying to enter the field. The only advice I offer is that fairness leads to true equality. While such power can be exhilarating, it's essential to understand that integrity, morals, and values are far more admirable.

 

This commentary may offend or disappoint some individuals. For those who are offended, the truth might hurt, but it is genuine for some. For those who feel disappointed, consider yourself fortunate that someone has shared their perceived reality. You have the choice to pursue this career. At least now, you are entering this profession with your eyes wide open and can make your own informed decision.

 

Good luck!