With just 63 females among the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office’s 498 sworn personnel, Sheriff Marcos Lopez is trying encourage more women to pursue law enforcement as a career — because they can do it.
“We have females in SWAT, K-9, community outreach and doing the same jobs as anyone else, and we want to entice them to be a part of it,” he said.
So he’s created the Women on Watch program, part of a nationwide 30x30 Initiative, and will be holding a free pre-academy program for women that’s a preview of what they can expect in the Sheriff’s Office on two upcoming Saturdays, June 17 and 24.
All you need, ladies, is to be 18 and up, a valid driver's license, and no prior felony convictions.
“It’s something we created to recruit more women and get them working in law enforcement; they’re significantly under represented in our department.” Lopez said. “They’re courageous, tough compassionate and intelligent. There’s no reason the number of females deputies are low, unfortunately women haven’t been applying. It’s about recruitment and not showing these opportunities are available.”
He said to raise the percentage of minorities within the department, he’s looking to hire 30-35 women.
At Women on Watch, females in the Sheriff’s Office will share their experiences in the police academy and in the Sheriff’s Office. The classes will include academic components with an introduction to law enforcement by women in all ranks, firearm handling, self-defense, the Physical Abilities Test and vehicle operation.
“Our goal is to show women they can do this,” Lopez said. “If you have a passion for justice and serving your community, I want you to come out and see if this career is the right one for you. We’re excited about this program.”
Interested candidates should visit osceolasheriff.org/women-on-watch and complete the application.
