YOUNGSTOWN 512 seek cop jobs, sign up for exam

The city plans to hire 20 officers over two years.
By JoANNE VIVIANO
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- More than 500 people will take the police officer exam Saturday.
Jennifer Labatte, the city's civil service administrator, said 45 percent to 46 percent of the 512 registered are women and/or minorities.
"I'm excited about it. That's great," said Lt. Rod Foley, vice commander of the Youngstown Police Department, adding that the department works to recruit diverse candidates.
"We have a large minority population in Youngstown, and obviously it's easier to do police work if an officer is a similar race. ... People feel they can relate to them.
"You always want to represent members of the community on the police department."
Foley said another benefit is that a diverse police base brings various viewpoints to the table when it comes to law enforcement issues.
"As a supervisor, it's better for me to get opinions and ideas from a great variety of police officers," he added.
Requirements
Prospective officers are deemed eligible for positions based on knowledge, skills and ability, Labatte said.
About two years ago, 388 took the test.
A prospective officer must pass the 100-question multiple-choice test to be considered for a patrol officer position. Test results are valid for two years.
At least 20 people will be hired over two years, said Lt. Robin Lees, YPD's public information officer.
The exam takes place Saturday at the Choffin Career & amp; Technical Center downtown.
Labatte said test-takers have 10 days to review questions and answers and to register protests about the test with the civil service commission. The tests are then graded. She expects results will be mailed to candidates roughly two weeks after the test date.
Those passing move on to a physical agility exam, she said.