South Kent News

The Kentwood Police Department is inviting individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to attend its recruitment event Wednesday, Feb. 15.

The event will take place 6-8 p.m. and include two one-hour sessions at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Similar to the department’s fall event, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about KPD’s sponsored police recruit position and other employment opportunities, connect with current officers, tour the department and more.

The informational sessions will be held at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., beginning with an overview about working for the department. Attendees only need to attend one of the sessions, which will cover the same information. Tours, networking and opportunities to learn more about specialized units at KPD will follow. Refreshments also will be provided.

“We’re seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our team, especially as a sponsored police recruit,” Police Chief Litwin said. “This position has been an important part of our efforts to recruit students of all backgrounds and to hire individuals who are representative of our diverse community.

“We met a lot of great candidates during our last recruitment event and look forward to connecting with even more people interested in careers in law enforcement this time around.”

The event will feature information about all department employment opportunities, with a special focus on the sponsored police recruit position. Selected police recruit applicants will receive a full scholarship from KPD to attend the Grand Valley State University Police Academy or another approved police training program in fall 2023.

In addition to the police academy sponsorship, recruits receive competitive pay throughout the academy, comprehensive health insurance, life insurance, a 9% employer retirement plan contribution and continuing education and training. Individuals who successfully complete the academy and other required certifications and training will be sworn in as patrol officers with the Kentwood Police Department. No prior law enforcement experience is necessary to apply for this position.

No registration is required for the event and no prior law enforcement experience is necessary to attend. Attendees should plan to bring something to take notes with.

Individuals who are interested in working for KPD but cannot attend the event can receive more information by contacting Recruitment Officer Ryan Smith at smithr@kentwood.us. 

More information about the event can be found at kentwood.us/KPD2023. To explore current job openings and apply, visit kentwood.us/employment.

Original source can be found here.