Detective Career Interview Essay Sample
On September 1, 2015, I interviewed Mr. John Brown, a detective at the Criminal Intelligence Unit of the Vancouver Police Department. We met during his lunch break so that he could tell me the extraordinary story of his career. It was a sunny afternoon, and we spent an hour outside the police station talking about the momentous situation that made him appreciate his life. Mr. Brown finally summoned up all his strength and shared with the world the most important aspects of this occupation. He decided to conduct this interview to make young people understand that being a law enforcement officer is dangerous and not at all easy. Brown added that a police officer’s occupation is unique and differs from any other profession, but deserves equal respect.
Career of Detective at the Criminal Intelligence Unit
Mr. Brown started our interview with the story of his life, ambitions, and dreams before he joined the Vancouver Police Department. He said that since his childhood he had always wanted to become a law enforcement officer. He liked watching the movie K-9, and admired the main characters for their courage and readiness to risk their lives for the sake of strangers. Mr. John Brown added that during his 20-year professional career he had never used force unlawfully or unjustly. He claimed that both the victims and suspects would never respect the law if the officer’s actions were abusive. He also said that he knew for sure that the best thing of his occupation was to help people around him, and to strive for justice and fairness.
Interestingly enough, when I asked him to describe the day of the accident during his shift, he explained that it was “a real-life nightmare.” The detective was silent for several minutes but then continued saying that their team found an address of drug dealers. He and his partner, Ann, undoubtedly headed there, “unaware of any possible threat.” At that time other detectives reported over the radio that the main suspect could be inside and armed. Unfortunately, when his partner knocked on the door, the drug dealer shot her in the neck and killed.
Soon afterwards, the death of his friend and co-worker caused the ongoing depressions, which lasted for more than three months. He started “drinking alcohol and losing his temper,” which resulted in turning in his badge to quit the police department. Luckily, his sergeant, Mr. Smith, his family and other members of his team were supportive and sent him to the rehabilitation centre. Once they told him, “If you don’t stop and don’t ask for help, it will ruin your life.” Moreover, they added that “your behavior and your grief will not bring Ann back.” Today, Mr. Brown is sure that she would never want to see him like that.
Furthermore, during our interview, the detective made some suggestions to the young people who think of becoming law enforcement officers. Firstly, he said that friendship and family were the most important things in every person’s life, which they should cherish and respect. Secondly, he added, “Even though grief takes time, you should be strong for yourself and the others.” Finally, Mr. Brown mentioned that no drugs or pills could heal a person or make him/her forget a grave experience. He concluded that his grief and pain had not disappeared since that day, but he would never again perceive alcohol as a solution.
Overall, this interview increased my knowledge and understanding of a detective career. Mr. Brown explained to me that the obligation of every police officer is to fight crime, maintain order, and protect the human rights. However, sometimes, while saving others, police officers may bring harm to themselves, their friends and family members. I understood that this occupation deserves respect and appreciation.
Interview Questions
- Good afternoon, Mr. Brown thanks for finding time to meet me. Please, briefly describe your story. How has everything started? How long have you been a detective?
- What are the best things about your job?
- Please, describe the day of the accident. How has that shift changed you, personally?
- So, how long have you been an alcohol addict?
- How and when did you realize you have a problem?
- Why did you make a decision to go into a rehabilitation center?
- Looking back and going through the whole process of rehabilitation, what are your strengths today? What has this period of your life taught you?
- What were the biggest challenges during this part of your life?
- What about your family members and working partners? How did they influence your recovery?
- Is there anything you would like to suggest to young people? What are the most significant traits to becoming a police officer?
- Thank you so much, Mr. Brown, for telling me about this life-changing period of your life and career. I understand how hard it was for you to remind yourself about that dreadful day. I hope you will keep moving forward in a truthful and honest way.