The police department is the main body of executive power, which is engaged in preserving law and order, ensuring security, and preventing offenses in society. People can feel protected by relying on the work of police departments. An essential factor in the relationship between the public and the police is the trust that must be present on both sides. This work describes the work of the San Diego Police Department, its brief history, and statistics about working there.
Initially, from 1845 to 1850, the military forces were engaged in maintaining law and order and control. Until 1889, law enforcement agencies were under the discretion of city marshals and constables. The San Diego metropolitan Police Department was first established on May 16, 1889 (San Diego Police Department, 2022). Its geographical responsibility is the City of San Diego. The first chief of the police department was Joseph Coyne, marshal of the city. The first police uniform consisted of derby hats, high-collared coats, and seven-pointed star badges (San Diego Police Department, 2022). Subsequently, the department’s work has evolved; new departments appeared, and working conditions improved. In 1987, police headquarters moved to the current seven-story building at 1401 Broadway. The current Chief of the San Diego Police Department is David Nisleit. “On March 2, 2018, David Nisleit was named the 35th Police Chief of the City of San Diego” (San Diego Police Department, 2022). Chef graduated from the University of Redlands with a degree in business and management, and in 2014 Nisleit graduated from the FBI National Academy.
If a person living in San Diego wishes to serve the city and help maintain order, it is essential to disclose the minimum requirements for employment. At the initial stage, the candidate may enter the ranks of the San Diego police in entry-level positions. Mandatory requirements are to be 20 years of age or older, a US citizen or permanent resident alien, and have a US high school diploma or GED (San Diego Police Department, 2022). After applying to serve in the police department, the candidate will have to write a particular test. The written test consists of 100 questions that consider the level of knowledge and skills in reading and writing.
Moreover, the test consists of various sections that determine the level of reaction to any circumstances, the awareness of perceived information, and the possession of special skills. The recruitment process takes an average of three to four months. The use of illicit drugs, traffic violations, and other criminal offenses make it challenging to work in the police department. There are no specific height or weight requirements, but all candidates must complete a rigorous 475-yard obstacle course simulating a chase for no longer than 3 minutes and 15 seconds.
When entering the service, it is necessary to consider the conditions of wages and benefits. “Starting salaries for new officers start at about $3,863 a month at the academy and top out at about $6,077 after their fourth year” (San Diego Police Department, 2022). Medical benefits are provided to each employee annually, including a certain amount of money for necessary medical expenses. At the same time, each employee is free to choose an individual benefit plan independently. Depending on seniority, the agency provides between 17 and 21 days of vacation for all officers, both for days off and sick leave.
I chose this agency because it seems attractive in terms of its conditions and interesting in its history of origin. Moreover, experienced specialists work in this department, from whom you can learn many subtleties of the profession. If I want to become a qualified specialist in this agency, I need to prepare mentally and physically for the tests and apply for a job. Moreover, I can enroll in the Police Academy, where I will be registered as an employee of the city of San Diego and will be able to receive payment.
Reference
San Diego Police Department. (2022). Police | City of San Diego official website. The City of San Diego.