Want to work in law enforcement? Here's how to get started
LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- So, you've decided to pursue a new career in law enforcement, but what does it really take to get the process started.
As News 10 dedicates this week to working in law enforcement; we spoke with Staff Sgt. William Lavergne with the Lafayette Sheriff's Office to hear all about recruitment, job opportunities, and how you can be a standout candidate.
"Most people think of law enforcement with the sheriff's office, which is correct. But we also have a finance division, information systems, mechanics and fleet operations supervisors. So, we do offer a great deal and a lot of career opportunities to people," Lavergne explained.
Whether you apply through the agency's website or through their various recruitment programs, your application will pass through the human resources department where staff members will review what job you're applying for and begin an extensive check on your history.
"We have to go through background, medical, psychological, just to name a few of them. And it's a long, detailed process, but well worth it," said Lavergne.
While the application process can be time consuming, Lavergne says it ensures that candidates' backgrounds and morals align with the code of wearing the badge on your chest.
In the case of those applying to be in the law enforcement or corrections divisions, a physical assessment test at the sheriff's training center will also be part of your journey.
"Basically timing on push-ups, sit-ups, and a course that was created by our training division. That is basically kept record of as far as time and amount. It's not necessarily a pass or fail, however it does help you if you are able to pass that to push you along a little bit further," said Lavergne.
After meeting the physical requirements and completing your background check, Lavergne says the most important step is self-reflection and remembering the importance of the career and the badge that will be on the uniform.
"Just be ready to serve your community. That's what we do here. We're here for the community. We're asked to protect them at all costs, and that's our job. We're here to serve them in any way we can, and that's what we tell our applicants," Lavergne noted.
Once applicants make it through the initial assessment and begin their journey, the first experience they'll see is working at the parish jail.
Tomorrow, we meet the corrections deputies and administration that take us through the corrections experience.