Police Officer Recruit

Newport News, VA
Newport News Police Department

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under close supervision, this position serves as the entry level trainee classification where employees are required to attend and successfully complete a Police Academy to learn the proper procedures and policies in law enforcement and crime prevention. Reports to a Police Training Sergeant.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Learns techniques to evaluate situations and determines the most appropriate course of action including pursuing or apprehending suspects; interviewing victims, witnesses, suspects, and other contact persons; crime scene and evidence preservation.
  • Studies various criminal activities requiring law enforcement intervention such as homicides, sexual assaults, robberies, property crimes, domestic violence, narcotics related activities, crimes by and against juveniles, and other crimes.
  • Studies guidelines to present court testimony and maintain associated case files; becomes familiar with completing forms, preparing reports, and correspondence.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Requires a minimum of a high school or general diploma or a combination of education and training.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be 20 years of age at the time of the written test and 21 years of age at the time of appointment.
  • Must pass an initial written test and physical agility.
    Requires a comprehensive background investigation to include a local, state and federal criminal history check; sex offender registry and credit check.
  • Requires satisfactory results from a medical, psychological evaluation and pre-employment
    substance abuse testing and is subject to random alcohol and controlled substance testing.
  • A valid Virginia’s driver’s license prior to employment with an acceptable driving record to include a zero or positive point balance and are required to refrain from the use of tobacco.
  • Must obtain and maintain for continued employment U.S. Citizenship prior to appointment as a Police Officer; all State requirements for Police Officers as specified in Virginia Code; all federal and state requirements to carry a firearm; and may require certifications such as Breathalyzer certification.