Originally Posted by
NE_Pilot
No street cop is making over $100k (without working a massive amount of overtime), the only guys making $100k are Sheriffs, Chiefs, Deputy Chiefs, and maybe Captains for the larger departments. These are the same people who have been on the job for 25+ years. Most Police Officers retire at or before making Lieutenant, let alone Captain (especially in the larger departments).
Further a lot of these guys who are pulling in the big bucks as cops, are working massive amounts of overtime, and use maybe 4 sick days in 25 years. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to bring in over $100k as a cop, along with a lot of years on the job, not to mention you are constantly dealing with people who have no respect for you. The pay and benefits are decent, but just like with an airline career, there are a lot of negatives, and there are a lot of effects on the family as well.
Really? Check out the recruitment page for the San Jose police dept.
http://www.joinsjpdblue.com/
At the top it says the top step officer pay is $107,835. I believe that is for patrol officers. I don't know how long it takes to get to the top step though. Also notice how they are actively recruiting guys to come over from other departments and offering credit for longevity. Retirements of 90% after 30 years and 70% after 25 years.
Don't get me wrong. I would not like to be a cop. But your rebuttal tries to discount the argument by pointing out that only sheriffs and Chiefs etc get the top pay. OF COURSE. As we progress in our careers shouldn't we expect to make detective, Lieutenant, chief or whatever. I would equate it to upgrade for pilots. (I know not everyone makes chief.)