Cop

What cops do

Cops patrol assigned districts, respond to emergency and non-emergency calls, conduct traffic stops, investigate crimes, make arrests, and testify in court. Most patrol officers spend their shifts driving routes, interviewing victims and witnesses, and writing reports.

Training path

Recruits attend a state-certified police academy, usually 16 to 24 weeks, covering criminal law, defensive tactics, firearms, and emergency vehicle operations. Many academies are followed by a 12 to 16 week field training officer program before solo patrol.

Work setting

Municipal police departments employ the largest share, alongside county sheriffs, state troopers, and the New York City Police Department, the country’s largest local force. Shifts include nights, weekends, and holidays, and overtime is routine.