If someone you love is considering becoming a police officer or has already taken the initial steps to serve, we understand the variety of emotions you might be feeling.

You have questions, concerns, you want to make sure that your son, daughter, husband, wife, family member or friend is going to be ok. This is normal and it’s important to us that you feel more comfortable about the decision your loved one might make.

Please know that the officers of the Tucson Police Department receive the very best training anywhere – and they receive a lot of it. Upon graduation from the academy they are fully equipped to handle a variety of different scenarios they may encounter on the job.

Learn how to support the officer you know and love. This process takes time and requires openness from both individuals. This job can be very trying – physically and emotionally. There will be some emotional and communication challenges, as many officers may be hesitant to share about their job and their feelings about what they see and do. They also develop close relationships with other officers who share these day-to-day challenges. This might leave you feeling as though you’re not connected to this part of his or her life.

However, the majority of police officers have very strong relationships and bonds with their family members and loved ones. The most important thing you can do is to build a peaceful and strong home life so that your loved one can focus on the job while they’re at work and enjoy their family and loved ones at home.

Please take the time to read some of the thoughts voiced by one TPD officer who did take this step and what it means for his family and loved ones. Additional opportunities to speak directly with the spouses of veteran officers is also available