HATTIESBURG, Mississippi (WDAM) – There are only a few days left to apply for HPD’s Police Recruit Class No. 44.

Requirements for training at the training academy:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a US citizen
• You have a high school diploma (a college degree is preferred)
• No arrests for a crime or other serious criminal activity
• Do you have a valid driving license
• Be registered as a voter in his/her current district/place of residence
• Pass a comprehensive background check
• Meet physical fitness standards

If you qualify, you can participate in a 17-week training program that begins in January.

HPD leaders say recruits receive first-class training, develop important skills and become part of a supportive police family.

“The academy will be difficult, but you will be telling your friends and colleagues about it for years to come, and at the end you will feel like you really earned something,” said HPD Officer Donald Ford.

“Hattiesburg is a great community to work in law enforcement because the people are very helpful and the work is more rewarding when you have the support of your community.”

The starting salary for a police officer in Hattiesburg is $50,000.

The salary for a recruit is $35,000 during the training period with a salary increase after graduation.

The application deadline is this Thursday, August 22nd. Apply HERE.

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