The Greenfield Police Department’s hiring process has not changed in many years. Officer applicants, with-Out exception, must have a two-year law enforcement degree to be eligible to apply. Applicants are initially screened with a standardized written exam testing general knowledge. The test uses language not specific to the Greenfield Police Department and appears to be a test developed decades ago by another department. The test includes outdated references to technology and police procedures. The test emphasizes officer qualities suited for a traditional “crime fighting’ strategy.

The interview portion of the hiring process consists of a panel of police managers reading general questions to the applicants. Each applicant is given a certain amount of time to respond. Follow-up questions are discouraged, and the managers are provided with the preferred answers to use in assessing the applicant.

Successful applicants are required to pass a rigorous physical fitness test. The applicants are tested for strength, endurance, and agility. It is common knowledge within the department that many of the current officers could no longer pass the test.

You have recently been promoted to captain. The new chief has asked you to study the hiring procedure and to offer suggestions for updating it. The chief wants a process that reflects the department’s emphasis on community and intelligence-led policing.

The Greenfield Police Department has a requirement that applicants must have a two-year degree in law enforcement. Can you think of any potential negative consequences resulting from thir equirement?

. What changes should you suggest for the written exam?

_ What are the benefits of adding an essay to the written test?

. How could you improve the interview portion of the hiring process’?

. Do you see any pitfalls with the physical fitness test?

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