The Hollister Police Department is inviting those interested in a career in law enforcement to meet officers and discuss what it takes to have a career in law enforcement during the March 4 Law Enforcement Information/Practice Day. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the San Benito High School football field on southern San Benito Street.
In a flyer announcing the event, the HPD said its recruitment staff “will be able to answer questions in how to prepare mentally and physically for joining this rewarding profession.”
The information day is designed for participants to experience the physical requirements of becoming a law enforcement officer. The training is based on California P.O.S.T. (Police Officer Standards and Training) requirements and includes physical tasks such as jumping fences, completing an obstacle course, running and weighted body drags — all of which are required for entry into the basic police academy.
Participants must be at least 18 years old and sign a release waiver in order to participate in the physical ability practice. They are encouraged to wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes in which to run.
The Hollister City Council in April 2016 approved officer recruitment and retention efforts after Police Chief David Westrick said the city had lost six officers in two years at a cost of $35,000 to recruit and train each through the probation period. He said he wanted to take steps to mitigate those costs and develop a more comprehensive retention process.
For more information, call the Hollister Police Department at 831-636-4330. To access an employment application, click here.