LATERAL ENTRY PROGRAM

Thank you for checking out the Rock Hill Police Department Lateral Entry Program.  We value your previous law enforcement experience and want to explore having you join our team!  Whether you are certified in another state or are already a South Carolina Certified Law Enforcement Officer, we want to offer you a place to continue your career without starting over. 

 

As a lateral hire, you may begin with rank, compensation, and promotion opportunities generally equivalent to that provided to our current officers. Your rank and compensation will be based on your years of experience and education, with a final offer made by Chief of Police, Chris Watts. 

 

Learn more about our Lateral Entry Program below or contact our recruiting office at (803) 329-7225.

1. APPLY

Complete the Employment Application and turn it in to the Recruitment Officer or submit online.

 

2. ORAL BOARD INTERVIEW

Approved applicants will be selected for an Oral Board Interview following the submittal of their application.

3. BACKGROUND PROCESS

Applicants will complete a background investigation which includes but is not limited to criminal history, personal and professional references, education, employment history, and verification of credentials and certification status. During this step, the applicant may receive a Conditional Offer.

4. Conditional Offer

An applicant may receive a Conditional Offer after completing the previous steps. Applicants will be scheduled for a polygraph, psychological exam, and medical physical which will include a drug screen.

5. FINAL INTERVIEW

The last step of this process is the Final Interview where applicants will meet with Chief of Police, Chris Watts, before an offer of employment.  

*The hiring process may vary depending on the applicant. Applicants can expect the process to take between 4-8 weeks.

OUT OF STATE INFORMATION

South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA) policy states that out-of-state officers must be currently certifiable in the state of South Carolina or not have a break in service of more than three years. In all cases, each candidate’s records, as listed below, must be presented to the SCCJA for review. If the candidate is eligible for the Special Basic Class 1, the candidate will be required to complete Special Basic Online Videos at their Agency and then be presented for a cumulative exam. Upon passing the cumulative exam they will have to pass a Firearms Proficiency and then a Driving Proficiency.

  • Certificate of Completion (BLET Course, Basic Corrections or Detention Course or Federal Training Course).
  • Curriculum/Syllabus showing hours and topics of training.
  • A completed POST letter from the out-of-state POST agency.
  • A Letter of Good Standing from the current or last agency the applicant was employed.
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