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Careers

The Lawrence Police Department offers many officers a challenging and rewarding career. There are so many opportunities to learn new skills, engage yourself and serve the Lawrence community. 

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Patrol

All LKPD Officers start in our patrol division. While most Officers will choose to remain in patrol, many assume additional responsibilities or transfer to special assignments after a few years. Patrol is our primary provider of police services to the community and is considered to be the backbone of the Lawrence Police Department.

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Special Assignments

After two years of service, Officers are eligible for assignment to various units within the Department. These assignments can range in length from 3-7 years.

  • K-9 Handler

  • Special Victims Unit Officer (SVU)

  • Directed Investigations Unit (DIU)

  • Training Unit

  • Mental Health Team

  • School Resource Officer 

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Investigations

The Investigations Division consists of detectives, officers and non-sworn support staff in the Special Victims Unit (SVU), General Investigations Unit (GIU), the Directed Investigations Unit (DIU), crime scene investigators, crime analysts, and other support roles.

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Promotion

The first promotion step available to Officers and Detectives is to become a Sergeant. Most Sergeants serve as front line supervisors for the Patrol Division. There are also Sergeants assigned to Investigations and elsewhere as needed. Promotion to Sergeant requires a minimum of five years of service.

After serving as a Sergeant for a minimum of two years, promotion to Lieutenant becomes an option. Lieutenants serve as Operations level Commanders.

Lieutenants with two years of experience are eligible for promotion to Major.

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Additional Opportunities

Regardless of assignment or rank within the department, members may expand their experience through other aspects of the department. 

  • Accident Investigation Unit

  • Department Instructor

  • Crime Scene Investigation

  • Bicycle Patrol

  • Public Engagement Team

  • Crisis Response Team

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