Reserve status to full-time

[JSL0506]

Do most agencies require you to attend a full-time academy even if you have level I reserve status? Does a level I reserve have the ability to lateral to full-time status?

[avalon42]

Most agencies will not require you to repeat an academy. They may require you to take a department "mini-academy". You can prove if you have what it takes during the mini-academy and Field Training.

Did you get your Reserve Officer certificate or BASIC certificate?

[ChiTownDet]

I've seen a lot on other threads about "Reserve" Officers. Are they paid in CA.? Sworn, armed, allowed to carry O/D? Here in Illinois, we have reserves and auxiliary P/O's, but some are not armed, and none are allowed to work a one man car. Usually Reserves and Aux. are not paid. What we do have are P/T P/O's who are sworn, armed, and work the same as a F/T P/O, but are allowed to work a max. of 1500 hrs. per yr. The P/T attend the same academy as F/T, but it's only 2 days a week and may take about 7 months to complete.
Sorry to hijack the thread..

[MT2658]

I've seen a lot on other threads about "Reserve" Officers. Are they paid in CA.? Sworn, armed, allowed to carry O/D? Here in Illinois, we have reserves and auxiliary P/O's, but some are not armed, and none are allowed to work a one man car. Usually Reserves and Aux. are not paid. What we do have are P/T P/O's who are sworn, armed, and work the same as a F/T P/O, but are allowed to work a max. of 1500 hrs. per yr. The P/T attend the same academy as F/T, but it's only 2 days a week and may take about 7 months to complete.
Sorry to hijack the thread..

level 1 reserves can work alone and carry, level 2 reserves have to work with another partner and can carry, level 3 reserves dont carry and generally do not perform general LE duties. as for pay, some agencies pay their reserves and pay them well, others dont.

[Stugotz]

Do most agencies require you to attend a full-time academy even if you have level I reserve status? Does a level I reserve have the ability to lateral to full-time status?

From what I have heard and read yes, SOME agencies allow a Level 1D to lateral over to FT without having to redo the academy since they have the equivalent POST and FTO training.

But, not all agencies allow it. For example, in the "LASD hiring process" thread a FT deputy recently posted that a Level 1D reserve deputy would have to redo the entire Basic POST academy if he/she was trying to go FT with LASD. That's the current protocol . . .

[Stugotz]

I've seen a lot on other threads about "Reserve" Officers. Are they paid in CA.? Sworn, armed, allowed to carry O/D? Here in Illinois, we have reserves and auxiliary P/O's, but some are not armed, and none are allowed to work a one man car. Usually Reserves and Aux. are not paid. What we do have are P/T P/O's who are sworn, armed, and work the same as a F/T P/O, but are allowed to work a max. of 1500 hrs. per yr. The P/T attend the same academy as F/T, but it's only 2 days a week and may take about 7 months to complete.
Sorry to hijack the thread..

Reserves are often paid a stipend, anywhere from $50 per month to $1 per year. Like the other poster noted, there are three reserve levels. With LASD, all levels are issued the same gear and uniforms as FT deputies, including firearms. But only Levels 1 and 2 can patrol. Level 3 reserves do mostly admin work. Level 2's patrol with a partner, and Level 1's can patrol solo.

[avalon42]

From what I have heard and read yes, SOME agencies allow a Level 1D to lateral over to FT without having to redo the academy since they have the equivalent POST and FTO training.

But, not all agencies allow it. For example, in the "LASD hiring process" thread a FT deputy recently posted that a Level 1D reserve deputy would have to redo the entire Basic POST academy if he/she was trying to go FT with LASD. That's the current protocol . . .

I can understand that they want to put a high stress environment FT as opposed to a PT academy. However, if you compare the FT Regular Basic Academy to the PT Modular or Extended Format, the POST required hours amount to more than the FT academy (not including whatever else the academy of choice likes to throw in).

So, Stu, that means you're going to have to go through 2 academies with LASD? I'm sure you'd be happy to either way. :D

[Stugotz]

Avalon: That's correct. F- it. Any way in is a way in! :)

[ownerop]

Since 2000 all Level I reserves have to complete a basic academy, it can be an extended, modular or full time format, same goes for a full time officer, it's the same training as full time. If you start as a level 1 reserve and go full time, you don't have to go through the academy again according to post, but some dept's will make you take their academy regardless, some will make you go through their academy even if you are full time with another agency, I.E LAPD and CHP and I have heard that LASD too, but to me it doens't make sense that LASD doesn't take other academies since their academy is one of the shortest of any agency.

[WPD954]

LASD DOES take other academies. they didn't in the past, but do now.



http://www.lasd.org/recruitment/J2707-dst-post.pdf

[ownerop]

LASD DOES take other academies. they didn't in the past, but do now.



http://www.lasd.org/recruitment/J2707-dst-post.pdf

Thanks for that info. One more note, reserves do generally get a leg up when it comes to going full time, but you do have to start the background process again, but it's usually a lot shorter, since they have they agency has already done a background before, they just need to get updated info to make sure you are still a stand up person.

[avalon42]

Level I (394 HOURS) is the final leg of the Regular Basic Course taught in modular format. Completion of all three Levels is equivalent to the LDs and scenario testing in a FT BASIC academy.

Source: http://www.post.ca.gov/Training/Reserve_Peace_Officer_Program/requirements.asp

http://www.post.ca.gov/Hiring/Peace_Officers/candidate_information/basic_training.asp

[ChiTownDet]

Thanks for the answers, guys..

Stay Safe on the street out there....

[ownerop]

Level I (394 HOURS) is the final leg of the Regular Basic Course taught in modular format. Completion of all three Levels is equivalent to the LDs and scenario testing in a FT BASIC academy.

Just to clarify, the hours you are posting are minimum hours required, most academies exceed the POST minimum hours by a lot. I know San Bernardino County academy is over 1000 hours for full time and Modular format academy level 3,2,1 combined are the same as full time academy.

[avalon42]

OO, I dont' think you clarified where the hours came into play...so I'll elaborate further.

Every academy exceeds the minimum hours required for RBC (664 HOURS). The hours set aside by POST is the time for LDs and scenario training, chemical training, EVO, etc. There is really no set schedule for the PT and other extras. The classroom and lab hours are always complimented by whatever the academy throws in or decides is a regional/dept necessity.

However, when you graduate from a RBC (in any format), the academy certificate is only going to cover the POST mandated minimum (664 HOURS).

[MT2658]

However, when you graduate from a RBC (in any format), the academy certificate is only going to cover the POST mandated minimum (664 HOURS).


I don't think so. My certificate lists 1050 hrs as well as my P.O.S.T training profile that I pulled from P.O.S.T.

[avalon42]

I don't think so. My certificate lists 1050 hrs as well as my P.O.S.T training profile that I pulled from P.O.S.T.

That's funny. When I got my LIII cert, it only list the POST mandated hours, not all the extra hours. I'm going to have to check under my POST ID # and see if I can pull my training history.

[MT2658]

That's funny. When I got my LIII cert, it only list the POST mandated hours, not all the extra hours. I'm going to have to check under my POST ID # and see if I can pull my training history.

If you need help finding the form to mail to POST let me know. It costs $10 and if you want it in 3 days it's an additional $10. I'm going to guess that since you are taking each level individually rather than a basic course you will only get the minimum hours on your cert.

[DAL]

1. Whether you will have to go through another academy depends on the agency. I heard a few months ago from one of the instructors that LASD was no longer allowing graduates of its own Level I reserve academy to become full-time deputies without additional training. On the other hand, I was at the Level I reserve academy one day a couple years ago, and some of the cadets were being hired as full-time deputies and were being sent to the Level I reserve academy while working in other capacities for LASD.

2. Whether a given agency requires you to go through the academy again may also depend on the amount of your experience and the recency of your training. If you are at a department where you have worked in a Level I capacity and have established a good track record, they are less likely to insist that you go through another academy.

3. The training officer and reserve coordinator can get your POST training records (academy + CPT) online free.

[DAL]

What we do have are P/T P/O's who are sworn, armed, and work the same as a F/T P/O, but are allowed to work a max. of 1500 hrs. per yr.

In California, some departments have those. They are classified as reserve officers. If they work alone, they have to have Level I certification; if they work with a full-time officer, they only need Level II certification.

Most reserve officers are not paid (except sometimes for special events), but they still require the same training as those who are paid. They also need continuing professional training.

[hbliam]

That's funny. When I got my LIII cert, it only list the POST mandated hours, not all the extra hours. I'm going to have to check under my POST ID # and see if I can pull my training history.

Mine lists all the hours not just the POST minimums.

[Garbage Man]

Some do, some don't. I think, as a rule the bigger the sillier. Meaning the big agencies have a general policy that is decided up on high by people who you will never meet. Smaller agencies can have a more individual approach. Some, like mine, encourage being a reserve first and most of our cops were. Right now I would recommend being a reserve if you cant get on full time somewhere.

But do the research to find out the agency that will give you the least hassle to become full time. I don't care how much you want to work for an agency, do not work for any agency that would make you repeat the academy. I don't care if you are Mr. hard charger Captain fitness, injuries can and do often happen, then what? You're out, that's what.

Honestly I think you are just wasting your time being LASD or LAPD Reserve, if you are looking for that as a stepping stone, be a reserve where they will look at your reserve time and value it.

[JSL0506]

Everyone's insight is much appreciated. Is it possible to go into a level II academy without attending and finishing a level III academy? Anyone know of the reserve academy start dates for LASD in 2009? The agency I am processing with uses their reserve academy and Rio Hondo's as well.

[Stugotz]

Everyone's insight is much appreciated. Is it possible to go into a level II academy without attending and finishing a level III academy? Anyone know of the reserve academy start dates for LASD in 2009? The agency I am processing with uses their reserve academy and Rio Hondo's as well.

JSL, the next LASD reserve academy is tentatively slated for February 2009. It'll cover Level 3 and then 2.

[avalon42]

Everyone's insight is much appreciated. Is it possible to go into a level II academy without attending and finishing a level III academy? Anyone know of the reserve academy start dates for LASD in 2009? The agency I am processing with uses their reserve academy and Rio Hondo's as well.

No, you must complete a Level III Academy before proceeding to Level II. The Level III exit exam is also the entrance exam for Level II. You do not need to utilize the same academy for each level.

I am using one academy for Level III (done) and Level II (just started!), but will be transferring to another one for Level I (only 1 POST certified in San Diego).

[Ilikechocolate]

SIDE NOTE:

If you are planning to be a self-sponsored recruit for a reserve academy, you should talk to a couple of agency recruiters to see what their qualifications are. Its usually the same but I met couple of recruits in the past that went thru the program and found out they could never become a reserve because of certain history problems.

It's just good to check before you spend your hard earned cash in this tight economy.

OCSD has a great reserve program but you don't get paid. You really have to love this to do it. If anyone wants to know more about OCSD reserves, feel free to PM.

Loved it so much that I decided to give up my consulting job to pursue a FT LE job instead.

[Call_me_Tom]

If anyone wants to know more about OCSD reserves, feel free to PM.

I sent you a PM.

[avalon42]

SIDE NOTE:

If you are planning to be a self-sponsored recruit for a reserve academy, you should talk to a couple of agency recruiters to see what their qualifications are. Its usually the same but I met couple of recruits in the past that went thru the program and found out they could never become a reserve because of certain history problems.

It's just good to check before you spend your hard earned cash in this tight economy.


I took the Prep class with Lt. Neumeister. Great guy. I would join the OCSD Reserves if I wasn't busy finishing my degree down here in SD county.

I'm wondering about your comment on self-sponsored recruits, because most academies will not allow you to enter if you have something jarring on your history that will prohibit you from being hired.

I laid everything out during my academy interview with my TO, who is also a BI for a local agency. Something important to point out for those debating going self-sponsored: what you omit from your academy entrance interview/paperwork but pops up on your PHS is going to look EXTREMELY BAD. Disclose EVERYTHING. I've had 1 agency tell me NO WAY, NO HOW, but a handful of others say NOT YET, BUT SOON. I am taking my academy concurrently with my university studies to get a competitive edge on those that graduate either an academy or a university. I will have both, and hopefully that will be enough.

So definitely use the shotgun approach and don't give up. If push comes to shove, out-of-state is always an option for me (sounds even better when Kieth talks about it). I found out that NM, MT, and certain NV agencies will take my POST certification at the end of Level II and put me through their abbreviated academy or on patrol.

[ReserveRod]

My academy did not ask for any history paperwork or conduct and interview. All that was required was a DOJ Clearance and clean DMV print out. I'm taking the risk of not getting hired and may very well not. However I really wanted to do this so Im taking my chances.

Wish me luck... Tommorow morning we have Firearms qualifications!

[avalon42]

My academy did not ask for any history paperwork or conduct and interview. All that was required was a DOJ Clearance and clean DMV print out. I'm taking the risk of not getting hired and may very well not. However I really wanted to do this so Im taking my chances.

Wish me luck... Tommorow morning we have Firearms qualifications!

Wow. Don't put yourself out of the game yet...I've heard encouraging things from ranked others who laugh when I freak out about my background.

Good luck on the shoot. Remember, your two best friends: sight picture/sight alignment and trigger reset. Those help me get nice groups.

[Ilikechocolate]

Wow. Don't put yourself out of the game yet...I've heard encouraging things from ranked others who laugh when I freak out about my background.

Good luck on the shoot. Remember, your two best friends: sight picture/sight alignment and trigger reset. Those help me get nice groups.

Hey Double R,

Like Avalon says, you shouldn't worry about it too much. Good luck with the academy and range qualifications. I hope you get picked up with an agency!

Hey Avalon,

Majority of OCSD is south Op so it's closer to SD. haha Good luck on your education.

[avalon42]

Hey Avalon,

Majority of OCSD is south Op so it's closer to SD. haha Good luck on your education.

Yup, I know most of the contract cities are south OC, but I am in South San Diego County. Maybe I'll head back north after I'm done down here. :cool:

Sgt. Osbourne taught my PC832 class. Another great instructor.

[Ilikechocolate]

Yup, I know most of the contract cities are south OC, but I am in South San Diego County. Maybe I'll head back north after I'm done down here. :cool:

Sgt. Osbourne taught my PC832 class. Another great instructor.

He was hilarious! he's a great character. btw if i'm not mistaken, it's Lt. Osbourne now...

[avalon42]

He was hilarious! he's a great character. btw if i'm not mistaken, it's Lt. Osbourne now...

Ah. A promotion well-deserved. When I was in the prep class, it was Sgt Neumeister (just got promoted to LT in middle of class), Sgt Bland (now promoted to LT for PSD). Is Lt. Osbourne still working out of South Division Command (Aliso)?

[McGruff]

^ Yea Osborne's at Southeast Ops in Traffic. Great guy...taught our vehicle ops class in the academy, and Sgt. Bland (then) was our commanding officer. Nothing but respect to those two as well as the OCSD Reserves.

[JSL0506]

Anyone know of possible dates for level III and II reserves academies for the rest of the year? I believe LASD just started this month and RH started in January.

[ReserveRod]

Wow. Don't put yourself out of the game yet...I've heard encouraging things from ranked others who laugh when I freak out about my background.

Good luck on the shoot. Remember, your two best friends: sight picture/sight alignment and trigger reset. Those help me get nice groups.


Thanks, the practice paid off! Shot 35 out of the 36 .

[avalon42]

Thanks, the practice paid off! Shot 35 out of the 36 .

Cool. Wait till Level II low-light shoots and transition drills, it becomes more interesting. :D

What were you shooting, 9mm?

[ReserveRod]

thanks....

we practiced some Level II stuff after qualifacations. definately will be much harder and exciting.

we were using glock 17