GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The city of Grand Rapids is looking to recruit its next fleet of police officers.
The Grand Rapids Police Department says this is an opportunity for people who have always wanted to be a police officer, but didn't have the money to pay for the training.
GRPD is now offering to pay for you to attend the police academy, while paying you a full-time wage which starts at about $45,000 a year.
The department says it needs more officers as many of its current force have retired.
They are looking for people who have a genuine interest and passion for public service and protecting their community.
We spoke to Sergeant Cathy Williams who says this is a great opportunity for people with a heart for public service.
"It really has to come from within, said Sergeant Cathy Williams, Public Information Officer with Grand Rapids. "They have to have it in their soul that they have this heart for service and there are so many rewards to this profession that people rarely see. "
There is also an open house Wednesday, Aug. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Michigan Works, 215 Straight Ave. NW.
Applications are due by September 6.
All applicants must pass the civil service exam and meet all Michigan Commission of Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) minimum licensing requirements:
At least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Possess a valid Michigan driver’s license
No felony crimes (see MCOLES website for additional disqualifying criminal history information)
Good moral character
Pass a comprehensive background investigation
Pass MCOLES reading, writing and physical fitness exams
Pass MCOLES psychological evaluation
Pass MCOLES medical evaluation and drug screening
Pass City of Grand Rapids civil service exam
Pass an oral board interview
Interested applicants who aren’t able to attend the open house and have questions about the recruiting process, may contact GRPD’s Community Engagement Unit at 616.456.3301, GRPDrecruiting@grcity.us or via Facebook message.
