Ask the Author: Why would anybody want to become a Chicago Police Officer?

(from Meredith at the Glenview Public Library)

Answer: The answer to that question is as diverse as the individual officers’ personalities. For some, it’s a stable, secure job. In this era of economic chaos and job loss, public safety cuts are rare. A city might not bring on additional officers, but they’re unlikely to cut positions. Law enforcement is generally job that delivers a solid, middle-class life, including a good pension, benefits, and decent salary and that certainly bears mentioning. This can also attract some less than motivated souls, however, some who see police work as a “ticket” out of tickets and a reason to pump out their chests.

Perhaps that sounds idealistic, but I also found many officers who got into the work with a sincere, almost ethical motivation; for them, law enforcement was a calling. These to me are the best officers; they’ve committed themselves to the profession and work to activate the true ideals of the career—to serve and protect.

Ask the Author is a running series of live audience or reader questions directed at On the Job author Daniel P. Smith. The series, which appears each Monday, is aimed at providing greater insight into Smith’s work in researching and writing On the Job: Behind the Stars of the Chicago Police Department as well as the book’s content. A speaker noted for his energy and engaging style, Smith is available for presentations at a wide range of events, including private book clubs, Citizen Police Academy meetings, libraries, senior centers, and schools. Please contact him directly at smithwriting@gmail.com to schedule an event.

Are you a reader with a question for On the Job author Daniel P. Smith? Send it to smithwriting@gmail.com.