Has anyone seen "The Academy"

[cblguy29]

The Academy is a show on Fox reality and I was wondering how much of it is the way things really happen, because some of these people do not look like they can pass the physical at all!! Just curious how dead on this show is!

[JTShooter]

I imagine it's pretty acurate considering the LASD still allows it to aire.

Only thing to keep in mind is they purposefully highlight the "weak links" in order to make the show "more interesting".

[alaskariverguy]

As the recruiter for our department the show makes me cringe because our academy is nothing like a boot camp style academy. Shows like this just further ingrain the preconceived notion that this is how all academies are. When I mention the word academy to a lateral I can just feel them start to reel back. At our academy we don't have dorm facilities, there is no drop and give me 20 and none of our instructors are former or wanna be drill Sgts.

Steve

[Blackavar]

I don't recall anyone crying during my academy. It seems that all the females in the show are crying.

[TheKansan]

As the recruiter for our department the show makes me cringe because our academy is nothing like a boot camp style academy. Shows like this just further ingrain the preconceived notion that this is how all academies are. When I mention the word academy to a lateral I can just feel them start to reel back. At our academy we don't have dorm facilities, there is no drop and give me 20 and none of our instructors are former or wanna be drill Sgts.

Steve

To be honest, until I looked into it more, I assumed all academies were paramilitary.

[LA DEP]

As the recruiter for our department the show makes me cringe because our academy is nothing like a boot camp style academy. Shows like this just further ingrain the preconceived notion that this is how all academies are. When I mention the word academy to a lateral I can just feel them start to reel back. At our academy we don't have dorm facilities, there is no drop and give me 20 and none of our instructors are former or wanna be drill Sgts.

Steve

We tried the 'camp snoopy' approach a few years back.....it doesnt work for LA.......

[TheKansan]

The Academy is a show on Fox reality and I was wondering how much of it is the way things really happen, because some of these people do not look like they can pass the physical at all!! Just curious how dead on this show is!

Let me tell you, some of the recruits on the show are in terrible physical condition. I have read about the difficulty some of the people on this board have had getting hired, and to think that some of the people on the show made it scares me.

[tony.o]

As the recruiter for our department the show makes me cringe because our academy is nothing like a boot camp style academy. Shows like this just further ingrain the preconceived notion that this is how all academies are. When I mention the word academy to a lateral I can just feel them start to reel back. At our academy we don't have dorm facilities, there is no drop and give me 20 and none of our instructors are former or wanna be drill Sgts.

Steve

I don't know how else it could be done because a college classroom type setting wouldn't weed people out. If people can't adapt to six months of a little stress, how are they going to be watching their backs and yours for the rest of their career. You have people quiting the first day or two because somone yelled at them.

[JMTX]

I don't know how else it could be done because a college classroom type setting wouldn't weed people out. If people can't adapt to six months of a little stress, how are they going to be watching their backs and yours for the rest of their career. You have people quiting the first day or two because somone yelled at them

The academy my mother attended was more "college" like. It's run by one of the local community colleges, and to my understanding there was no "drill sgt" type attitudes there.

[tony.o]

The academy my mother attended was more "college" like. It's run by one of the local community colleges, and to my understanding there was no "drill sgt" type attitudes there.

Yeah, I know about the community college type academies, you know what I'm about to say about that.:rolleyes:Are you going to make me say it, because I don't want to ruffle some feathers today.

[JMTX]

Eh, you have a right to your opinion. My mom has gone on to have a great career and make rank, so I guess her academy couldn't have been too bad.

I don't really see the point of academies that yell and scream at people and treat them with no respect.

[tony.o]

The whole point of it is to put people under stress so they can learn how to cope and to instill discipline. A nonstress Academy wouldn't do anyone a favor here, for themselves or the people they join out in the field. If someone can't handle being yelled at in a controlled environment, what are they going to do out in the field. I guess it just depends on where you work.

[Sarkis]

I didn't think they were "that para-military" but after a long hard think about it, I think that's the way it should be.

For one, there are going to be times where people are screaming at you, are freaking out and needing your help. Learning how to control being screamed at with all that pressure seems like it would be a good idea.

Your partner might be screaming at you because he was just shot, and having experienced being screamed at for 5-8 months will definitely help one control the pressure and stress level and allow them to think more competently.

But I have no idea what I'm talking about, these are only assumptions.

[tony.o]

Like I said before, you have people quiting during the first few days because of the stress. You want those people backing you up in the field.

[JMTX]

The whole point of it is to put people under stress so they can learn how to cope and to instill discipline. A nonstress Academy wouldn't do anyone a favor here, for themselves or the people they join out in the field. If someone can't handle being yelled at in a controlled environment, what are they going to do out in the field. I guess it just depends on where you work.

Well I work in a jail, and I get yelled at and cussed at and put in stressful situations all the time. I think I handle it just fine...and my jail academy certainly wasn't the type where they get to yell and curse and scream at you (Our sheriff wouldn't have stood for that...he REQUIRES his supervisors to speak to their subordinates with courtesy and respect, and they would be disciplined for yelling or cursing at an officer, as such behavior is not professional.)

I don't think the academy is going to "teach" a person how to put up with scumbags and stress. Eithers you are the kind of person who can handle it, or you aren't. I see the academy (both the police academy and jail academy) as a time for you to learn how to do your job. You learn the laws that pertain to your job, defensive tactics, firearms training, etc. Most people don't learn too well from someone who treats them like crap, so the whole drill Sgt routine is counterproductive at best.

[InHarleyCop]

I don't really see the point of academies that yell and scream at people and treat them with no respect.


Spoken like a true jailer with no real-life street experience in dealing with perps before they hit the bars. ;)

[Blackavar]

Spoken like a true jailer with no real-life street experience in dealing with perps before they hit the bars. ;)

Not necessary.


People who graduate from a non-stress academy and have a job/career are going to say that non-stress academies are the way to go. People who have stress academies are going to say their style is the best. It is an internet argument that can not be won.

That being said, I hurt some feelings on here a while back when I said my academy was better than a local college type. And both are stress academies. There is always going to be people who graduate from a non-stress that are very capable and can withstand stress. There will always be people who graduate from a stress academy who aren't worth their salt.

There are definitely cerebral aspects of this job. What can't be overlooked however are the physical and stressful aspects of the job. These are the situations that determine if we come home at the end of shift. I would much rather have a stress academy graduate at my side during the fight for my life than someone who learned how to be a cop through college courses.

[yangsTa]

I watch this show everytime it comes on (Direct Tv DVR FTW!). Its surprising to see some of these people apply and get into the academy. You'd think at least you'd be physically fit. Some people are just not meant to join the academy.

[Fuzz1028]

My academy was paramilitary and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I gained a lot from that experience. IMHO I don't think that a "college" atmosphere is right for this profession. Just my .02

[towncop]

I can't believe how freaking easy it is for some of them to get BACK into an academy class after washing out the first time. How the hell does that happen out there? Anyone here on LA Co. SD comment on that?

[alaskariverguy]

The different style academies all result in a similar product, sworn officers. However the style of law enforcement that is necessary is vastly different from coast to coast and from a large metropolitan area compared to rural areas. Personally, I like our style of academy because I don't need someone yelling and screaming at me for no reason other than to try and induce stress. I am an adult and expect to be treated like one by coworkers, regarless of how some of the public we contact may act. If I wanted to go to boot camp I would have joined the military. In our mindset at our department, we do not need to break some down to build them back into something that we want, if the person is not right to begin with, we simply won't hire them. If we find the right person all they need is the information on how to do the job. But that is my two cents worth. In the end it depends on what the departments needs are as to what is the best style of academy.

Steve

[JTShooter]

I think it comes down to the type of people you hire. If you allow the hiring of people such as shown on this tv show, then you NEED a paramilitary style academy. If you are tougher on your standards and weed out the "weak" and physically unfit BEFORE you hire them, then there isn't a need.

Down here they balance the paramilitary and college setting quite well. It also helps when the classes are only 20-30 people.

[LA DEP]

I can't believe how freaking easy it is for some of them to get BACK into an academy class after washing out the first time. How the hell does that happen out there? Anyone here on LA Co. SD comment on that?

Depending on exactly why they were booted the first time, some are encouraged to come back and try again......

All they have to do is go back through the hiring process.....they will USUALLY make them wait a year before they can reapply......

We have hired somewhere around 1500-2000 Deps in the last 3 years......more than a few would have been 'recycles' from earlier classes that they got washed out of......

[tony.o]

Well I work in a jail, and I get yelled at and cussed at and put in stressful situations all the time. I think I handle it just fine...and my jail academy certainly wasn't the type where they get to yell and curse and scream at you (Our sheriff wouldn't have stood for that...he REQUIRES his supervisors to speak to their subordinates with courtesy and respect, and they would be disciplined for yelling or cursing at an officer, as such behavior is not professional.)

I don't think the academy is going to "teach" a person how to put up with scumbags and stress. Eithers you are the kind of person who can handle it, or you aren't. I see the academy (both the police academy and jail academy) as a time for you to learn how to do your job. You learn the laws that pertain to your job, defensive tactics, firearms training, etc. Most people don't learn too well from someone who treats them like crap, so the whole drill Sgt routine is counterproductive at best.

I want the Academy to weed people out. One type is easy and will not, the other is harder and does to an extent. As far as really learning anything useful, I can't say that I learned much, academically, in the Academy, until I went out there and started actually doing it. To me it was just something to endure for 6 months, the real learning starts when the FTO phase is over and you ride by yourself.
Kind of reminds me back when everyone wanted to go to Sand Hill not Harmony Church ( some will get it).

[tony.o]

I can't believe how freaking easy it is for some of them to get BACK into an academy class after washing out the first time. How the hell does that happen out there? Anyone here on LA Co. SD comment on that?

Yeah, they do that alot here and you guessed it, when they finally get through, most turn out to be not very good officers.

[Bearcat357]

I want the Academy to weed people out.

Amen.....

I went through a Unversity Ran State Course......and we had 5-6 folks that got through that have no business being LEOs....out of a class of 32.....

--One killed himself and his girlfriend.....in front of her kids....with his duty weapon....
--One got canned by his agency for being a liar.....
--One got canned by his agency for being a burglar...
--One got canned by his agency for insubordination with his FTO.....
--One got canned for insubordination with 2-3 departments and is working as a Campus Cop now...

And finally....

--One got arrested for Felony assault....during the academy.....

[Blackavar]

The different style academies all result in a similar product, sworn officers.

In name only. That's like saying a doctor with a degree from a "Po-dunk U" is just as good as a doctor from Harvard.

However the style of law enforcement that is necessary is vastly different from coast to coast and from a large metropolitan area compared to rural areas. Personally, I like our style of academy because I don't need someone yelling and screaming at me for no reason other than to try and induce stress. I am an adult and expect to be treated like one by coworkers, regarless of how some of the public we contact may act. If I wanted to go to boot camp I would have joined the military. In our mindset at our department, we do not need to break some down to build them back into something that we want, if the person is not right to begin with, we simply won't hire them. If we find the right person all they need is the information on how to do the job. But that is my two cents worth. In the end it depends on what the departments needs are as to what is the best style of academy.
Perhaps you instinctively know you couldn't handle it. Although it sounds like it, that is not meant as a "dig". Besides, it has nothing to do with being treated like an adult. It is called "training".
Steve

I think it comes down to the type of people you hire. If you allow the hiring of people such as shown on this tv show, then you NEED a paramilitary style academy. If you are tougher on your standards and weed out the "weak" and physically unfit BEFORE you hire them, then there isn't a need.

Very good point!


I too want them to weed people out. Although there is a credence to Justhomp's dept. practice quoted above, there will always be people who get passed the vetting process when they shouldn't.

During a car stop with a 3 strikes parolee I don't want to be with an officer that graduated from a college type academy that didn't teach their recruits how to act through stress. There are very few people who instinctively know how to operate in stressful situations. It is a learned behavior. When the cost of failure is my life that is simply not acceptable. My wife, my children, my family, my city deserve better than that.

Stress training also brings out other attributes in people that may otherwise lie hidden. Someone who is having difficulty in the academy may break under stress and make dishonest decisions to make their life easier (cheating, etc..). I know because I have seen it happen.

[alaskariverguy]

I guess you are saying that I am less of an officer than you because I graduated from a non boot camp style academy, that I am not adequate back up, that I can't handle stress. I would argue otherwise, I have been in fights, been shot at, spent 3 years doing undercover drugs/prostitution, seen my fair share of dead bodies, foot chases, served many search warrants, worked with other agencies, etc.

Our academy teaches officer survival, ground fighting, firearms, and many other tools. They just do it without the yelling, screaming, pushups, and unnecessary humiliation. I didn't need someone checking to make sure I made by bed properly, that my haircut was like everyone elses, I needed someone to teach me about laws, ordinances, case laws, application of force, tactics, etc. I believe our academy does just that, and yes people wash out of the academy. Our success rate by the end of field training is about 65%. However, we weed out the majority of applicants during the hiring phase which has a success rate of about 5%. We expect our officers to use their discretion which means they need to be able to think for themselves. The state academy here is run like a boot camp and they turn out fine officers, they just do it a little different than we do. I have to admit it sure was nice to go home every night and on the weekends instead of living in the dorms.

Steve

[Sir_Gaius2005]

Although I'm not a LEO and don't have any experience with the academies... I must say, I would much rather go through a stressful academy!

There are several reasons that I personally would want to go through a stressful academy.

First of all, coming from a martial arts background, as my sensei says, "One who does not practice like they will live, that is the one who will suffer, because he is the person who will act like he is in the classroom."

Secondly, I want to know that the people who go through the classes with me are able to do the same things. I'm sorry, but, if I am to put my life in somebody's hands, then I want to be sure that they are at least as physically capable as I am.

Third, as Blackavar said, stress brings out the real person inside.

...although, if you're to believe Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching, verse 80 then stress isn't the best way to go about things. (not taoist, just enjoy a different view)

"Let us fashion small states with few inhabitants who, without stress, can produce more than they require, who are so happy with their lives that they have no thought of migrating elsewhere - who inherit weapons and armor, but no need to use them, who return to honest forms of communication, and the simple enjoyments of an ecological way of life. Although theses states may be so close to each other that they hear the barking of each other's dogs and the crowing of each other's cocks, living contentedly, they will have no need to invade each other's space."

[alaskariverguy]

Although I'm not a LEO and don't have any experience with the academies... I must say, I would much rather go through a stressful academy!

There are several reasons that I personally would want to go through a stressful academy.

First of all, coming from a martial arts background, as my sensei says, "One who does not practice like they will live, that is the one who will suffer, because he is the person who will act like he is in the classroom."

Secondly, I want to know that the people who go through the classes with me are able to do the same things. I'm sorry, but, if I am to put my life in somebody's hands, then I want to be sure that they are at least as physically capable as I am.

Third, as Blackavar said, stress brings out the real person inside.

...although, if you're to believe Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching, verse 80 then stress isn't the best way to go about things. (not taoist, just enjoy a different view)

"Let us fashion small states with few inhabitants who, without stress, can produce more than they require, who are so happy with their lives that they have no thought of migrating elsewhere - who inherit weapons and armor, but no need to use them, who return to honest forms of communication, and the simple enjoyments of an ecological way of life. Although theses states may be so close to each other that they hear the barking of each other's dogs and the crowing of each other's cocks, living contentedly, they will have no need to invade each other's space."

The problem here is that you are assuming that only in boot camp style academies do recruits receive ground fighting, hand to hand combat, and other forms of physical skills. That is not true. The only thing that someone in a boot camp style can do better than me is probably pushups and be used to be being yelled and screamed at, oh and be able to make their bed better than me. Our officers are physically challenged during the academy but also taught to use their minds and their mouths. It is amazing what you can get people to do if you ask them. Doesn't mean that you aren't prepared to back it up with force if necessary.

I was going to continue with more analogies but if you don't get it by now, guess I can't explain it anymore. I will just have to admit that those who like coke better won't ever consider trying a Pepsi.

Steve

[TheKansan]

The problem here is that you are assuming that only in boot camp style academies do recruits receive ground fighting, hand to hand combat, and other forms of physical skills. That is not true. The only thing that someone in a boot camp style can do better than me is probably pushups and be used to be being yelled and screamed at, oh and be able to make their bed better than me. Our officers are physically challenged during the academy but also taught to use their minds and their mouths. It is amazing what you can get people to do if you ask them. Doesn't mean that you aren't prepared to back it up with force if necessary.

I was going to continue with more analogies but if you don't get it by now, guess I can't explain it anymore. I will just have to admit that those who like coke better won't ever consider trying a Pepsi.

Steve

I agree with you Steve. I am going through training right now, and it is not the para-military style training, yet we are learning the same things without being yelled at. Many excellent officers were trained in this manner and it would be wrong to discount them based solely on the style of academy they attended.

[Blackavar]

I guess you are saying that I am less of an officer than you because I graduated from a non boot camp style academy, that I am not adequate back up, that I can't handle stress.

Those are your words not mine. But I would say that if I was given a choice between two cops, 1 stress graduate and 1 non-stress graduate, I would pick the stress graduate because I know he has been specifically trained and conditioned to handle stressful situations. And, like I said before...I know the door swings both ways.

The problem here is that you are assuming that only in boot camp style academies do recruits receive ground fighting, hand to hand combat, and other forms of physical skills. That is not true. The only thing that someone in a boot camp style can do better than me is probably pushups and be used to be being yelled and screamed at, oh and be able to make their bed better than me. Our officers are physically challenged during the academy but also taught to use their minds and their mouths. It is amazing what you can get people to do if you ask them. Doesn't mean that you aren't prepared to back it up with force if necessary.

I know this wasn't aimed at me but....I don't think that is the issue. The issue is being able to respond in a stressful situation. Its not about having the physical skills. To be honest my academy ran too much. There wasn't enough emphasis in strength conditioning.

And...despite your dripping sarcasm and obvious contempt for my point of view (and those of others)....I like Mtn. Dew best. :D

[Bearcat357]

But I would say that if I was given a choice between two cops, 1 stress graduate and 1 non-stress graduate, I would pick the stress graduate because I know he has been specifically trained and conditioned to handle stressful situations.

Not to be a smart azz.....but how would you even know if you were working with one or the other.....?

Around where I work....it's easy....as if they haven't been through KCPD or the MO Highway Patrol Academies....then they have been through a University/Community College style Academy that was probably sort of paramilitary......

[Blackavar]

Not to be a smart azz.....but how would you even know if you were working with one or the other.....?

Around where I work....it's easy....as if they haven't been through KCPD or the MO Highway Patrol Academies....then they have been through a University/Community College style Academy that was probably sort of paramilitary......

Not taken that way. The question at hand though (as I presented it) is "if" I knew. I may not necessarily know who I am working with. Besides, I can always ask ;). The majority of people in my dept. went through the same academy as I did. If they are standing next to me they went through my academy. However, with a recent merger that will be changing shortly. But, that is another story.

Please, everyone, keep in mind....I judge everyone on their individual merits. If they aren't up to the task I don't care what academy they graduated from. If they are from a different academy and can handle the task then I all for that too and will back them to the hilt.

[alaskariverguy]

And...despite your dripping sarcasm and obvious contempt for my point of view (and those of others)....I like Mtn. Dew best. :D

That's the difficulty with the written word, it's hard to tell sarcasm from friendly pokes at your neighbors. :D

I don't have contempt for your point of view, just trying to argue my point of view. What started out as a comment about a tv show has snowballed into a near finger pointing, soap box shouting, good ole fashioned my dad can beat up your dad argument.

If I had known about the Mt Dew I would have put you in a whole different category, nothing worse than a drill Sgt on caffeine!!

Steve

[cblguy29]

That's the difficulty with the written word, it's hard to tell sarcasm from friendly pokes at your neighbors. :D

I don't have contempt for your point of view, just trying to argue my point of view. What started out as a comment about a tv show has snowballed into a near finger pointing, soap box shouting, good ole fashioned my dad can beat up your dad argument.

If I had known about the Mt Dew I would have put you in a whole different category, nothing worse than a drill Sgt on caffeine!!

Steve

Wow youhave become better at hijacking threads! X2---Just kidding, you both bring up excellent points and it all boils down to the type of training suits you better, not one is better than the other.

[Blackavar]

That's the difficulty with the written word, it's hard to tell sarcasm from friendly pokes at your neighbors. :D

I don't have contempt for your point of view, just trying to argue my point of view. What started out as a comment about a tv show has snowballed into a near finger pointing, soap box shouting, good ole fashioned my dad can beat up your dad argument.

If I had known about the Mt Dew I would have put you in a whole different category, nothing worse than a drill Sgt on caffeine!!

Steve


You are right, that is the problem with the written word. I have been guilty of that in the past myself. All is good. Besides, I want to have a friend I can go visit in Alaska :D.

.... you both bring up excellent points.... and it all boils down to the type of training suits you better, not one is better than the other.

Very true.

[alaskariverguy]

You are right, that is the problem with the written word. I have been guilty of that in the past myself. All is good. Besides, I want to have a friend I can go visit in Alaska :D.



Very true.

When the fish are running it is amazing how "friends" I suddenly have. Of course the red salmon are running right now, silvers are starting to show up, the halibut catch is good (small but good) and the rainbow and dolly fishing is starting to pick up too. That is one of the many reasons I live here, can't get enough of the fishing. If the weather holds Monday I have to take the family friends out of Seward for halibut, gives me an excuse to buy a few more fishing rods so I won't complain.

Have fun, time for me to head to the softball game!

Steve

[stormz5192]

I have attended both style of academies and both have their strong points. I liked the academic strength that was offered and instilled at the non para academy, but also like the respect and squared away attitude that was instilled at the military type academy. However, I cannot stand instructors that make it their personal mission to fail people by making their life a living hell on the PT grounds. I have seen them regularly pump out recruits that can run 10 miles, but cannot do a fairly close to intelligent police report. Sadly folks, our job consists of a lot of paperwork and very little running. I'd rather have an officer that may be a little larger( not sloppy) and able to handle themselves than an officer that can run 20 miles,but can't do a damn thing when a suspect is caught.

Bottom line, a military structure is needed, but to a point. ACADEMICS are the key.

[Blackavar]

I have attended both style of academies and both have their strong points. I liked the academic strength that was offered and instilled at the non para academy, but also like the respect and squared away attitude that was instilled at the military type academy. However, I cannot stand instructors that make it their personal mission to fail people by making their life a living hell on the PT grounds. I have seen them regularly pump out recruits that can run 10 miles, but cannot do a fairly close to intelligent police report. Sadly folks, our job consists of a lot of paperwork and very little running. I'd rather have an officer that may be a little larger( not sloppy) and able to handle themselves than an officer that can run 20 miles,but can't do a damn thing when a suspect is caught.

Bottom line, a military structure is needed, but to a point. ACADEMICS are the key.


Quoted for truth. We had some agencies that stopped bringing us their recruits due to this reason. Washing people out because they are fat bodies is one thing. Washing them out because you are running like gazelles and giving them stress fractures in the shins is another.

[Stewie]

Spoken like a true jailer with no real-life street experience in dealing with perps before they hit the bars. ;)

Spoken like an idiot IMO, have you ever worked in Corrections? Our Academy was more relaxed, none of this yelling wannabe Drill Instructors in our faces. I guess I'm inferior since I didn't have Instructors telling me to do 500 pushups maggot huh?

[tony.o]

All the running portion to me was to see who will easily give up. It takes nearly a year to get to the Academy and if you can't run a quarter mile before you start throwing up to get your so called dream job then you aren't too motivated. Back then I would have run until I collapsed or go through whatever to get my job and some people wouldn't even polish their damn shoes.

[JMTX]

Spoken like a true jailer with no real-life street experience in dealing with perps before they hit the bars]

Spoken like someone ignorant of the fact that this is not MY opinion I'm voicing but that of my two parents who have spent *plenty* of time on the streets (15 and 17yrs respectively).

[InHarleyCop]

Spoken like an idiot IMO, have you ever worked in Corrections? Our Academy was more relaxed, none of this yelling wannabe Drill Instructors in our faces. I guess I'm inferior since I didn't have Instructors telling me to do 500 pushups maggot huh?

Why yes I have. I worked for a federal prison for 5 years prior to becoming a cop. So, I'm quite sure I know what I'm talking about. And well, you're the one that used the word inferior, not me. You jailers are a great buch, I love ya. ;):rolleyes:

[InHarleyCop]

]

Spoken like someone ignorant of the fact that this is not MY opinion I'm voicing but that of my two parents who have spent *plenty* of time on the streets (15 and 17yrs respectively).

So the comment that YOU MADE which is the one I quoted, "I don't really see the point of academies that yell and scream at people and treat them with no respect" wasn't really YOUR opinion, but that of your parents? Seems you would have written it as such instead of making it look like it was your opinion.

[Retired96]

I went thru the LASD Academy in 1970, I watched the program and it made me puke what the Dept. is hiring now. I could not believe the out of shape cadets.

I saw years ago when still working that if you could walk, talk, chew gum at the same time and your a minority, the county would hire you.

The cadets I saw were a joke, and I'm ashamed that my once proud Dept. has stooped so low to hire the people they do...

The worst thing that ever happened to LASD was a idiot named Leroy Baca....

[nebraska_deputy]

I have attended both style of academies and both have their strong points. I liked the academic strength that was offered and instilled at the non para academy, but also like the respect and squared away attitude that was instilled at the military type academy. However, I cannot stand instructors that make it their personal mission to fail people by making their life a living hell on the PT grounds. I have seen them regularly pump out recruits that can run 10 miles, but cannot do a fairly close to intelligent police report. Sadly folks, our job consists of a lot of paperwork and very little running. I'd rather have an officer that may be a little larger( not sloppy) and able to handle themselves than an officer that can run 20 miles,but can't do a damn thing when a suspect is caught.

Bottom line, a military structure is needed, but to a point. ACADEMICS are the key.

You have good points specially that one I highlighted. Our academy we only did PT. officially 3 times a week. But we had other times where it was called "training," but it was basically PT. Our instructors didn't yell at us all that much. As long as you were putting in the effort and they knew you were not just jacking around no one bothered you.

For the most part the only yelling that came out of the instructors mouths was trying to motivate us. I was one of the ones who did my PT. to the best of my ability and I didn't really complain about it. I was in that category where I wasn't a Marathon runner, but I wasn't the last one in the group. There is one major thing everything everyone forgets. No matter how much yelling your instructors do at you and how much PT. you do, ultimately the most important thing is your written test.

If you can do a thousand push ups and run 500 miles, but can't pass your Arrest Search and Seizure test, or Civil Law test, then what good are you? I can see putting emphasis on PT., but just as much should be put on the academics. And yes, we had people in our class that were book worms, that would be questionable in a brawl. So I think their should be a balance, but it shouldn't be over done.

[JMTX]

So the comment that YOU MADE which is the one I quoted, "I don't really see the point of academies that yell and scream at people and treat them with no respect" wasn't really YOUR opinion, but that of your parents? Seems you would have written it as such instead of making it look like it was your opinion.

It's both my opinion AND theirs.

[TheKansan]

I saw years ago when still working that if you could walk, talk, chew gum at the same time and your a minority, the county would hire you.


This is the one thing that I am sick of reading on this site. :rolleyes:

It's a bunch of crap, and the fact that I have seen this mentioned several times makes me angry. Personally I'm glad that departments are looking for more minority and female officers. If it was up to people like you, all officers would be white males.

I personally have not been given any preference based on my race, in fact I have been rejected by several agencies in spite of what I consider good qualifications. I don't attribute my rejections to racism, and I don't make excuses for my personal failures, I suggest you do the same.

[LA DEP]

Since this thread has went from a discussion of the TV show 'The Academy' to a discussion over the merits of a stress academy vs a non-stress academy, I'm going to start a new thread......

[tony.o]

This is the one thing that I am sick of reading on this site. :rolleyes:

It's a bunch of crap, and the fact that I have seen this mentioned several times makes me angry. Personally I'm glad that departments are looking for more minority and female officers. If it was up to people like you, all officers would be white males.

I personally have not been given any preference based on my race, in fact I have been rejected by several agencies in spite of what I consider good qualifications. I don't attribute my rejections to racism, and I don't make excuses for my personal failures, I suggest you do the same.

What I get sick of is posters who have little or no police experience express what they think they know about this job, it's culture, or what really goes on and then when someone tells the truth, they don't like it.
If your as qualified as you say you are, everything else being equal, you are going to get preferential treatment due to your race if you apply to a large urban department. Thats common knowledge. They're all hiring so whats the problem?

[Blackavar]

Move from Kansas to the West Coast than. Your mind will be changed. This is a reality for us. I would LOVE to have a VERY diversified force. It has nothing to do with race. It has everything to do with the declining standards in law enforcement in order to be politically correct. Although right now, we on the West Coast need recruits of ANY color because it seems like they all suck.

[cblguy29]

I went thru the LASD Academy in 1970, I watched the program and it made me puke what the Dept. is hiring now. I could not believe the out of shape cadets.

I saw years ago when still working that if you could walk, talk, chew gum at the same time and your a minority, the county would hire you.

The cadets I saw were a joke, and I'm ashamed that my once proud Dept. has stooped so low to hire the people they do...

The worst thing that ever happened to LASD was a idiot named Leroy Baca....

This was the answer I was actually trying to get. Thanks!

[JTShooter]

This is the one thing that I am sick of reading on this site. :rolleyes:

It's a bunch of crap, and the fact that I have seen this mentioned several times makes me angry. Personally I'm glad that departments are looking for more minority and female officers. If it was up to people like you, all officers would be white males.

I personally have not been given any preference based on my race, in fact I have been rejected by several agencies in spite of what I consider good qualifications. I don't attribute my rejections to racism, and I don't make excuses for my personal failures, I suggest you do the same.


You've obviously never seen E.O. in action then...

[POPE]

I've been watching that show and it seems like they have a good academy going on out there. The show itself is a little lame but I must say I don't understand how people are failing out of that academy b/c I haven't seen anything hard about it. That academy is a stroll in the park compared to ours (Georgia State Patrol). I guess that's the difference between a County agency and a State agency, and 19 weeks vs. 33 weeks.

It's cool to see something police related on TV though.

[TheKansan]

You've obviously never seen E.O. in action then...

You are right, it's impossible for a white man to find a job :rolleyes:

[m1811]

I can weigh in based on my personal experiences with the three academies I attneded. The first was a municipal academy which was basically geared towards the classroom setting philosophy. We went home at the end of the day, not difficult at all. We got the basic run of the mill elementary preparation for rookie cops. 15 weeks.

The second was the state police academy (east coast) in which it was a resident academy up at 0500 for morning PT. Classes all day with alot of yelling and "motivational" training. Then afternoon PT and alot of boxing etc etc. 26 weeks.

After that I went Federal and landed in Quantico. Not much stress but by then it really would not have mattered. Physically challenging at times and alot of academic work. 17 weeks.

OK then, personally if you cant handle the stress of being yelled at, the stress of sleep deprivation, and the stress of making benchmarks in order to graduate you should not seek employment in this profession.

Upon completing the state police academy I felt as if I accomplished something. Putting on the uniform for the first time was such an accomplishment. Watching good people wash out simply because they could not handle the heat motivated me even more.

For those who think yelling and screaming is a waste or counter productive you simply dont speak from firsthand experience. Believe me I did not like it one bit but in the end it made sense. Our DI's used to say we do this for a reason. The same held true in Quantico. There was at times additional stress placed on us and it made us focus. Remember, while under stress on the street you revert back to your training. If your training was a stroll in the park good luck, you will need it.

As far as the LASO Academy I think the stress level "appears" to be about right. Personally I think it should be tighter. Overall my impression is LA County is getting some real zero's. Some squared away people for sure but the show seems to focus on the one's that need a reality adjustment

[JTShooter]

You are right, it's impossible for a white man to find a job :rolleyes:

Not impossible, but can be difficult.

Agency near me hired a 19 year old spanish female who weighs MAYBE 110lbs wet, over a former Army MP, a college graduate and a 23 year old security guard. Had one empty slot for the academy and they chose her. (She failed FTO and was sent through again)

Nah, EO has nothing to do with her hire.

[Blackavar]

I've been watching that show and it seems like they have a good academy going on out there. The show itself is a little lame but I must say I don't understand how people are failing out of that academy b/c I haven't seen anything hard about it. That academy is a stroll in the park compared to ours (Georgia State Patrol). I guess that's the difference between a County agency and a State agency, and 19 weeks vs. 33 weeks.

It's cool to see something police related on TV though.

According to POST instructors who came to our academy, your academy and ours would vie for the #1 and #2 spots for academies in the nation.

[tony.o]

I've been watching that show and it seems like they have a good academy going on out there. The show itself is a little lame but I must say I don't understand how people are failing out of that academy b/c I haven't seen anything hard about it. That academy is a stroll in the park compared to ours (Georgia State Patrol). I guess that's the difference between a County agency and a State agency, and 19 weeks vs. 33 weeks.

It's cool to see something police related on TV though.

33 weeks, what do you do for 33 weeks.:confused:

[gadphto89]

anyone know if the academies in new york state (not nypd) are paramilitary?

[Sarkis]

Man, I know that they only show the "weak ones" in that show, but seriously, why would they even be there in the first place when they can't get over a freakin' wall?????!!!!!! Seems like a waste of resources and effort.

A lot of people on that show -----> "It's always been my dream to be a Sheriff's Deputy. I want to be a law enforcement officer so bad, it is my goal." I'm sorry, but after continually hearing that from 20 people who were interviewed, I sort of got the impression of -----> "I want to drive around in a car that says SHERIFF, looking pretty, wearing a nice shiny badge and hope I never get in any difficult situations."

Some of those people you could hit with a feather and they'd fall on the ground!

[POPE]

33 weeks, what do you do for 33 weeks.:confused:

The training we get is alot more extensive than regular mandate. We have 2 weeks of driving (regular EVOC and Advanced High Speed EVOC (plus another week of P.I.T. training/other pursuit techniques) we have 2 weeks of firearms traing (plus another week of Tactical firearms training, including house clearing, cover drills ect.) So we have a total of 6 weeks of just driving and shooting. We spend a week and a half on DT/Mobile field force training. As far as class room goes we take all the regular mandate classes along with a handfull of classes that pertain specifically to the State Patrol. 12 of the 33 weeks are spent in Field Training. We go back to the academy for 2 weeks before graduation to rap things up and brush up some training after FTO is over.

[TheKansan]

If your as qualified as you say you are, everything else being equal, you are going to get preferential treatment due to your race if you apply to a large urban department. Thats common knowledge. They're all hiring so whats the problem?

And I will get unfairly disqualified at suburban and rural departments due to racial prejudices. You see how things work out? In the end I end up on the losing end no matter how hard I try. Even applying in the big cities, there could be an oral board interviewer, or deputy chief who shows bias against minorities, though they would never admit it.

[TheKansan]

Not impossible, but can be difficult.

Agency near me hired a 19 year old spanish female who weighs MAYBE 110lbs wet, over a former Army MP, a college graduate and a 23 year old security guard. Had one empty slot for the academy and they chose her. (She failed FTO and was sent through again)

Nah, EO has nothing to do with her hire.

After I was rejected by the KCPD, I didn't sit there and think that race had anything to do with my rejection. Instead I focused on how I could have answered the questions in my interview better. I also focused on making myself a more desirable candidate so that next time I would get the nod. I will never sit there and blame race, that is a lazy.

[LA DEP]

The training we get is alot more extensive than regular mandate. We have 2 weeks of driving (regular EVOC and Advanced High Speed EVOC (plus another week of P.I.T. training/other pursuit techniques) we have 2 weeks of firearms traing (plus another week of Tactical firearms training, including house clearing, cover drills ect.) So we have a total of 6 weeks of just driving and shooting. We spend a week and a half on DT/Mobile field force training. As far as class room goes we take all the regular mandate classes along with a handfull of classes that pertain specifically to the State Patrol. 12 of the 33 weeks are spent in Field Training. We go back to the academy for 2 weeks before graduation to rap things up and brush up some training after FTO is over.

Your FTO time is considered part of your academy?.....is the 3 months the complete field training program?......

[towncop]

According to POST instructors who came to our academy, your academy and ours would vie for the #1 and #2 spots for academies in the nation.
So where is your academy located? We see his is the GA State Patrol's. I'm curious as to what you think the other "top dog" is.

[JTShooter]

After I was rejected by the KCPD, I didn't sit there and think that race had anything to do with my rejection. Instead I focused on how I could have answered the questions in my interview better. I also focused on making myself a more desirable candidate so that next time I would get the nod. I will never sit there and blame race, that is a lazy.

I really hope that's not directed towards me.

My story about the female is the reason my friend who USED to work for that department left. He was TOLD to hire her over the others.

I don't get turned down ;)

[Blackavar]

So where is your academy located? We see his is the GA State Patrol's. I'm curious as to what you think the other "top dog" is.

It is not what I think as you suggest. It is merely what I was told. Take that how you want it. Orange County Sheriff Academy.

[tony.o]

The training we get is alot more extensive than regular mandate. We have 2 weeks of driving (regular EVOC and Advanced High Speed EVOC (plus another week of P.I.T. training/other pursuit techniques) we have 2 weeks of firearms traing (plus another week of Tactical firearms training, including house clearing, cover drills ect.) So we have a total of 6 weeks of just driving and shooting. We spend a week and a half on DT/Mobile field force training. As far as class room goes we take all the regular mandate classes along with a handfull of classes that pertain specifically to the State Patrol. 12 of the 33 weeks are spent in Field Training. We go back to the academy for 2 weeks before graduation to rap things up and brush up some training after FTO is over.

Well the Field Training or FTO phase as we call it here isn't counted as part of the Academy and is also 12 weeks, so I'd say ours is the same length. Your Academy probably is better due to your agency though, our driving portion is pretty lame because were not allowed to pit or make any contact at all with suspect vehicles anyway.