Ever Wonder What It's Like To Be a Police Officer?

By Sean Thompson

Earlier this year, the world was rocked by COVID-19, which changed our lives in lots of ways. Many people lost their jobs or began working from home. Almost everyone began focusing on social and traditional media because there were no other forms of entertainment. Sports seasons, concerts, and other social events were cancelled, and even visiting family members became a health risk.

Then came a period of unrest. Police officers suddenly went from hero frontline workers in the fight against the pandemic to being viewed as the enemy, as Americans watched in horror when George Floyd was senselessly murdered by an officer in Minneapolis. Though this incident was condemned by most everyone, to many, the police were suddenly a problem.

While social media can be used as a positive form of communication, it is often used to manipulate people. Theres a saying that just because its on the internet doesnt mean its true. As the public information officer for the Roswell Police Department (RPD), I constantly poll citizens to find out where they obtain their news. Overwhelmingly, people state social media is their main source for information. If social media is your primary source for news, Id like to remind you that its important to confirm that what youre consuming is from a credible, unbiased source. You should never take what you read or hear online or in the media as the absolute truth.

Have you ever wondered what policing looks like from a Roswell police officers perspective? What kind of training is required for our officers? Why do police officers act or react the way they do in various situations? What employment opportunities there are within the RPD?

One way the RPD has aimed to tackle false information and uncertainty is through the Roswell Citizens Police Academy (CPA). RPD has hosted at least one CPA class per year since 1993. The main goal of this free 10-week program is to introduce members of the public to various functions of police work.

Students receive firsthand knowledge about police operations, the K-9 unit, SWAT team, D.U.I. Enforcement, 911 Communications Center, and how criminal cases are investigated. Participants get to ride along with patrol officers and sit in our E-911 center to experience what its like to do those jobs. They are also exposed to use-of-force scenarios and have the opportunity to take part in hands-on training exercises. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older, pass a background check, and be a Roswell resident or business owner.

Applications are full for the fall class of 2020, but be on the lookout for information about next years classes by following the RPD on Facebook or by periodically checking our website, RoswellPD.org.

Remember to always do your own research. If you have the opportunity to participate in CPA in the future, I highly recommend it. Graduates of the academy have stated that it was eye-opening, very informative, and a great way to get to know the members of the Roswell Police Department.