Reserve Duty?

[Shin71]

I am full time military... but would it be worth it to look at becoming a Reserve Deputy with the local Sheriff's Office? I like the idea of helping society, or at least the small piece I am occupying now (and for the next 3-6 years).

I like the idea and I would only have to do a minimum of 8 hours a month to stay certified and they would okay me stay in the program during deployments.

The practical/tactical training and experience sounds like a draw but is it that much different from the military.

 

[Bill Mattocks]

I am full time military... but would it be worth it to look at becoming a Reserve Deputy with the local Sheriff's Office? I like the idea of helping society, or at least the small piece I am occupying now (and for the next 3-6 years).

I like the idea and I would only have to do a minimum of 8 hours a month to stay certified and they would okay me stay in the program during deployments.

The practical/tactical training and experience sounds like a draw but is it that much different from the military.

It's not that much different from reserve military duty. It's very different from active duty military or full time law enforcement.

You do a lot of 'real' police work, but you also do a lot of 'administrative' work and parade duty. It can be rewarding, depending on what you're looking to get out of it.

 

[jks9199]

A lot depends on how the agency uses its reserves. Ours have limited authority, and they free cops up from things like traffic posts or cruising the business district for parking violations. Others use special talents or skills to help us out, again freeing up an officer for other duties. They're also a force multiplier for things like marathons/5K runs that need escorts, parades, and emergencies.

But in other agencies, the reserves or auxiliary officers are just volunteer cops -- full authority, no pay.

Talk to the reserve coordinator, and find out what they do -- and if it's something you'd like to do. Maybe see if you can do a ride-along with a reserve unit, or at least talk to a few of them.

However, you will almost certainly find a lot of difference from military duty -- even if you're an MP.