Functions of Sergeants in Police Forces - Essay Example

In defense of the educational requirements, the background can offer recruits an opportunity to be diverse in areas in which they want to explore once in the police force (Ross 263). Furthermore, having an exceptional educational background can give the officer the confidence to tackle situations that present themselves in the daily activities, for example; the apprehension of criminals. Understanding search and seizure laws may sometimes be the difference between capturing a criminal and giving them a get-out-of-jail-free card.

Sergeants in police forces around the world need to have experienced so as to command a police unit. On top of all that, it is imperative to have the education in the field so as to allow the officer in question to remain loyal to those they might serve, and ask for a promotion when the time is right. As the newly appointed Police Chief, it is my duty to evaluate the educational background of the individual in question, starting with the basic aspect of communication. The concept of having an exceptional educational background does not matter much if the individual is incapable of properly communicating with others (Ross 267). Individuals in this position are faced with the uphill task of communicating on a regular basis with their units, as this issue of communication may be a matter of life and death. The high school diploma and two years of higher education are also part of the promotional requirements.

The promotion of sergeants to lieutenants based on education as the deciding factor is vital. Individuals seeking this must at least boast of a bachelor’s degree or any certification higher than the bachelor’s degree. Recent studies indicate that officers who seek promotions and have a high educational background have a higher chance of getting promotions, and at the same time, maybe better equipped to handle the tasks and responsibilities that come with policing (Ross 273). Debates have been on the rise as to whether education is important in policing, and in my opinion, it is a crucial element in the functioning and operations of the police force. Lieutenants have their work cut out for them if they happen to be less educated than the much younger officers. It may be difficult to command the respect needed in such a position once individuals know that they are better positioned to take over that top spot.

Lastly, promoting an individual to the captain’s chair is a difficult task for any Police Chief as the captain represents the whole police unit in particular areas. In such a case, it would be wise to base the promotion criteria on an educational background that involves more than just the basic bachelor’s degree. It is vital to have someone who is diverse in other areas, for example; a master’s degree in criminology or psychology. These key areas are crucial in understanding human behavior and in the policing field, which might come in handy (Ross 281). Moreover, society might feel much safer knowing an individual who is more rational is leading a police unit, which might work toward eradicating the stereotype that surrounds uniformed police officers. In light of the above, the perception surrounding uniformed police officers and their level of education may be phased out; leaving a society that is ready and willing to accept the rule of law as dictated. Read More