What does a Police Sergeant do?
Published 3 min read
A police sergeant is a law enforcement officer who supervises a team of police officers. He or she is responsible for ensuring that the officers under his or her command are properly trained and equipped to perform their duties, and for leading them in the performance of their duties.
Police Sergeant job duties include:
- Serve as a watch commander during assigned shifts, responsible for the supervision of all police personnel and activity within the assigned district
- Ensure that all police personnel under his/her command are following proper procedure and protocol
- Investigate complaints against police officers and take appropriate disciplinary action when warranted
- Respond to emergency situations as needed and provide leadership and direction to other officers on the scene
- Plan and direct police patrols within the assigned district
- Prepare reports on all significant incidents that occur within the district
- Conduct regular meetings with beat officers to discuss crime trends and problem areas
- Work with community leaders and members to identify and resolve public safety concerns
- Serve as a liaison between the police department and the community
Police Sergeant Job Requirements
Police Sergeants are responsible for supervising and leading a team of police officers. They typically have at least 5 years of experience working as a police officer, and have completed a Police Sergeant training program. Some agencies also require a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field.
Police Sergeant Skills
- Communication
- Leadership
- Organizational
- Planning
- Problem Solving
- Public Safety
- Report Writing
- Research
- Supervision
- Training
- Use of Force
Related: Top Police Sergeant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Police Sergeant
There are many ways to become a police sergeant. Some people start as police officers and work their way up through the ranks. Others may start out in a different career field and then transition into law enforcement. No matter what path you take, there are certain steps you will need to follow in order to become a police sergeant.
First, you will need to complete a law enforcement training program. This can be done at a local police academy or through an online program. Once you have completed your training, you will need to obtain a job with a law enforcement agency. Once you have been employed as a police officer for a few years, you may then be eligible to take the sergeant’s exam.
The sergeant’s exam is a written and oral examination that tests your knowledge of law enforcement procedures and policies. If you pass the exam, you will be promoted to the rank of sergeant. As a sergeant, you will be responsible for leading and supervising a team of police officers. You will also be responsible for investigating crimes and making arrests.
If you are interested in becoming a police sergeant, it is important to start working towards your goal now. By completing a law enforcement training program and obtaining experience as a police officer, you will be well on your way to achieving your goal.
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