How long does it take for a police officer to get an opportunity to become a detective in Chicago?

Question

I've recently completed my military service contract and am due to take an exam for the Chicago police Department. Understanding little of how the department works, I would like some information on the types of careers available in the department and how long you have to work on the force in order to get opportunities for jobs like Narcotics, detective, intelligence, etc.

My background is good: two deployments in forward zones, intelligence position, a graduate degree... Does any of this have any bearing or is it almost strictly time/service-based for the aforementioned positions?

Answer 1

Most big cities have you start out in patrol for 2-4 years; I've seen most departments here in California have a minimum 4 years before you can take the detectives test, but Illinois maybe different than California. Background may help with hiring, but not as much with promotion. Stay safe, stay clean, and be smart. Best of luck to you!

Answer 2

With your experience , I think you should be able to become a detective immediately.

You seem to be a very respectable person.



There is a very serious situation in Berkeley Heights, NJ; which involves a corrupt and unstable cop, whose name is MIKE MATHIS.

Officer Mathis has been charged with 2 counts of Child Endangerment , he has bullied many women, children and a handicapped man in Berkeley Heights, NJ

When all these incidents were reported to the Berkeley Heights Police, The Union County Prosecutor's Office, The Attorney General, Jeff Chiesa and even the NJ Governor, Chris Christie... nothing at all has been done to curb Mathis' behavior.



As a matter of fact, with all the evidence handed in against Officer Mathis, the Union County Prosecutor, Theodore Romankow PROMOTED Mathis, instead of reprimanding him.



So, I really don't think you should have to wait long at all.

Answer 3

Your background means nothing at first



You are looking at at least 2 years, probably more