Law enforcement agencies in the south recruit in WNY

Posted: 6:30 PM, Apr 16, 2018
Updated: 2018-04-16 18:30:17-04

A number of law enforcement agencies in southern states such as Virginia, Florida, and Georgia are purposely recruiting in Buffalo. 

Michael Kozlowski, the chair of Erie Community College Criminal Justice Department , believes many law enforcement agencies are targeting Western New York because of its rich educational programs in Criminal Just and Police Academy. 

Trooper James O’Callaghan, New York State Police Public Information Officer said it’s not uncommon for law enforcement agencies to recruit outside of their states. But he’s convinced Western New York has something everyone wants. 

“This is a great area for pulling people to the job market and that’s probably what why are thinking because that’s exactly how we do,” Trooper O’Callaghan said. 

In fact, New York has a higher standard when it comes to hiring law enforcement officers like police and state troopers. It’s required you have a certain amount of college hours, take a civil service or other exams. Requirements in some southern states are much lower. In some states you only need a GED to become an officer. 

“Ultimately what the end game is for any os us in law enforcement is to get someone who’s very interested in law enforcement and are willing to go get that job,” O’Callaghan said. 

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