Why do you want to be a Sergeant?”
Answer
I want to become a Sergeant because I’m ready to take on a leadership role where I can impact not just calls, but the performance and development of other officers.
Throughout my career, both in law enforcement and prior leadership roles, I’ve naturally taken on more responsibilities other than just my job title (armorer/firearms), I’m good at staying organized, and I really enjoy helping others improve.
Describe your leadership style.
My mom leadership style is hands-on, consistent, and accountability-driven. I set clear expectations early, lead from the front, and make sure my team knows I’m available to support them.
At the same time, I believe in addressing issues early—through coaching first, and discipline when necessary.
Tell us how you’ve prepared for this role
I’ve had the opportunity to manage teams in the past, which has helped me develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
I make it a point to review laws, department policies, and procedures regularly. I also reflect on past incidents to identify what went well and what could be improved.
Describe a time you showed leadership
While responding to a disturbance at at the city bus stop on Mexico City, I encountered three parties involved. One of the adults, reported being assaulted by her sister, who was down the road at prime flight in a vehicle with her mother and children. The situation was rapidly evolving, because after running the victim—who had outstanding warrants—additional officers were arriving on scene.
I took the initiative to organize the scene and delegate roles. I assigned two officers to remain with the parties at the bus stop, while I, along with one other officer, made contact with the suspect.
By stepping up to structure the response, the scene became more controlled and efficient, allowing us to resolve the situation safely. This experience reinforced my ability to lead under pressure
How would you handle a problem officer
I would address the issue early and directly. First, I’d have a private conversation to understand the root cause and clearly communicate expectations.
If it’s a performance issue, I’d focus on coaching and giving them an opportunity to improve. If the behavior continues, I would document the issue and escalate appropriately following policy.
My goal is to correct behavior, not just punish it—but I will hold officers accountable
Explain Reasonable suspicion
a legal standard allowing law enforcement to briefly detain and investigate a person if they have specific, articulable facts suggesting criminal activity is occurring
Explain probable cause
a legal standard allowing law enforcement to arrest or search if they have facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe a crime has been committed
How would you handle a bomb threat at the airport?
My first priority would be life safety. I would ensure an appropriate perimeter is established, assess the need for evacuation, and begin notifying necessary resources. such as K9, bomb squad, ems/fire, command staff and airport operations.
As resources arrive, I would ensure roles are assigned and transition into an Incident Command, coordinating with all involved agencies
What is your understanding of Incident Command
Incident Command is what’s needed in large incidents. a standardized system thats used to unify and manage multiple agencies like law enforcement, fire, TSA, and airport authorities.
What do you know about airport regulations like 49 CFR 1540?
Federal regulations
49 CFR Part 1540 outlines compliance requirements with TSA security measures (screening procedures and prohibited conduct). It applies broadly to all individuals, including passengers and employees
Officers use these violations to develop reasonable suspicion or probable cause and enforce applicable state or local laws, such as trespass or disorderly conduct.
How do you ensure integrity within your squad
Integrity starts with leadership. I would lead by example and ensure my actions consistently align with policy and the law. I would set clear expectations, address issues immediately, and hold everyone accountable equally.
Example of reasonable suspicion
I observe someone late at night looking into multiple car windows and checking door handles, that could indicate attempted vehicle burglary
Stop and frisk : terry vs Ohio
Example of probable cause
I respond to a theft call and a witness positively identifies a suspect who is still in possession of the stolen property, that would establish probable cause for arrest.
What is disorderly conduct
involves behavior that disrupts public order. Mere speech is NOT disorderly unless it INCITES violence
Domestic violence calls
In domestic cases, I focus on separating the parties involved, then identifying the primary aggressor, documenting evidence thoroughly, and ensuring victim safety while following state arrest guidelines.
Case law: Terry v. Ohio
Established stop and frisk based on reasonable suspicion
Case law: Miranda v. Arizona
Requires Miranda warnings during custodial interrogation
Graham v. Connor
Use of force must be objectively reasonable
What do you know about airport regulations like 49 CFR 1542?
Federal regulations
49 CFR Part 1542 establishes requirements for airport operators, including access control to secured and sterile areas.
Officers use these violations to develop reasonable suspicion or probable cause and enforce applicable state or local laws, such as trespass or disorderly conduct.
Case law: Illinois v. Gates
probable cause is based on the totality of the circumstances. As an officer, it’s critical that I can clearly articulate the facts that led me to believe a crime occurred and justify my actions.
