Tustin PD a dream job for many law enforcement hopefuls

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As all industries, law enforcement included, continue to adjust in a new coronavirus reality, the Tustin Police Department has been no exception.

Recently, to keep up with its recruiting demands, the department conducted its physical ability testing (PAT) for lateral officer transfers and academy graduates. Participants maintained their distance from one another, wore masks, and the equipment they worked on was sprayed with disinfectant after each applicant moved through.

“This is not typical of prior testing,” said Officer Mark Sauerwein, personnel officer with Tustin’s Professional Services Division. “Also, the groups were considerably smaller in order to assist with facilitating safety and social distancing.”

Sauerwein said they used two small groups, with under eight participants. He noted that on the running portion, usually the batch moves together. This time, though, they ran alone separated by 10-second increments.

For non-academy graduates and lateral applicants, there is still a written test to take after PAT. Sauerwein said they’re still planning that process, which will be difficult to accommodate the more than 400 applicants.

“Human Resources is working out the details in order to comply with county and state guidelines,” he said of the testing. It will be the first one they’ve done since the start of the pandemic.

The department is also interviewing candidates via Zoom, rather than in person.

Still, Tustin is fortunate. Many people want to work there, and they don’t have to actively recruit. The department has received more than 1,000 applications since the start of the year.

“We have tremendous support from our community and a positive reputation in the law enforcement community,” Sauerwein said.

The department is actively hiring for most police positions. Updated information can be found on the City of Tustin website, www.tustinca.org.