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.
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.
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.
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K-9 Handler
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Special Victims Unit Officer (SVU)
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Directed Investigations Unit (DIU)
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Training Unit
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Mental Health Team
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School Resource Officer
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.
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.
Additional Opportunities
Regardless of assignment or rank within the department, members may expand their experience through other aspects of the department.
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Accident Investigation Unit
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Department Instructor
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Crime Scene Investigation
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Bicycle Patrol
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Public Engagement Team
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Crisis Response Team
