In some departments, like the LAPD, detectives are the only sworn-in officers that wear business attire or street clothes instead of their issued uniform. Police detectives are usually assigned to a specialized division – such as narcotics, gang activity, or robbery – and investigate a specific kind of crime. Officers may be promoted to corporal status, which allows may include duties like detective work, field training and watch commander. However, they have the opportunity to specialize in areas like field training, or media coordinators.Īfter racking up some experience, police officers may also join more specialized units such as a SWAT team, a canine unit, or bomb squad. Newer officers usually receive a pay bump after they successfully complete their probationary period, which may last between one to four years.Ī new police officer beginning their probationary period will start at the lowest police rank. There are several different police pay grades that LEOs may qualify for after reaching certain milestones. They can perform a variety of roles including patrolling the streets, responding to the scene of a crime or accident, and participating in community awareness efforts. Here’s a general outline of the police ranks commonly used by metropolitan departments, ranked from lowest to highest: Police officerĪ police officer is the most common kind of sworn officer in any given metropolitan department.
Martin talks with kids while performing community patrol at the Cielo Ranch apartments in Southwest Dallas, Sunday, July 10, 2016.