Debunking 4 Myths about Cops

Many people don’t understand the realities of life as a police officer. A lack of understanding about what police work entails perpetuates unfounded myths. Furthermore, Hollywood has a strong penchant for depicting cops in television shows and feature-length movies.



Police officers make exciting characters on the screen. However, just like any other profession, Hollywood takes numerous creative liberties with police work. In addition, dramatization is vital to making an enjoyable visual production. Movies and TV screens cut out the everyday activities that encompass most jobs and only focus on the glorious high-octane action bits.

Myths About Cops

Numerous myths unfounded in reality exist about cops. These include:

Police Officers Need to Be Perfect

Although the standards to become a police officer are high, they aren’t unattainable. Cops are regular people and not infallible characters. The requirements to become a police officer are relatively simple. Candidates must be at least twenty-one years old to be appointed as police officers. They must hold a High School or GED diploma. Candidates must also possess a valid driver’s license, have no prior convictions, and pass a drug test and background check.

Police Applicants Must Possess Certain Skills

Many people often believe police applicants must already possess hand-to-hand combat training and display proficiency in firearms. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. States select police applicants after assessing their performance on the exam. Most counties hold their exams independently. For instance, to join the Suffolk County Police, applicants must sit for the Suffolk County Police exam. Selected applicants undergo training at the training academy, where instructors ensure applicants receive training in all required areas ranging from county laws to self-defense.

Police Officers are Immune to Fear

Certain situations can be scary for police officers. However, all police officers undergo training that equips them to handle these situations calmly and confidently. Sometimes, cops find themselves in high-stake situations like shootouts or robberies. While these life-threatening situations may be nerve-racking, police officers have guidelines to follow when handling them.

Police Officers Commonly Fire Their Guns

The myth that police officers routinely have to use their guns persists. According to a Pew Research Center national survey, more than eight in ten adults believe that police officers fire a weapon at least once during their time in the force. However, the reality is that only 27% of police officers report using a gun during their time of service.

Two cops on duty wearing body cameras


Preparation to Become a Police Officer in Suffolk County

If you aspire to become a police officer in Suffolk County, you will have to sit for the Suffolk County Police test. Civil Service Success can help you ace your tests and prepare you for your future career as a police officer. They also help candidates appearing for civil service exams in NYC.

Contact them today to enroll in their Suffolk County Police exam prep classes.

  

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