NORFOLK, Va. – As law enforcement agencies struggle to recruit nationwide, the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office is lowering their hiring age to 18 years old.
In the past, deputies had to be at least 21 years old.
Sheriffs and police chiefs are trying to find new ways top attract qualified candidates with a passion for public service.
“The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office is a values-driven team committed to public safety, public service, and public trust,” Sheriff Joe Baron said. “We are recruiting young adults who share those same values, and are interested in beginning a long, fulling career in law enforcement.”
The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office has a thorough hiring process to make sure candidates are fit for careers in law enforcement. They do background and reference checks, a polygraph exam, drug tests, medical exams and fitness assessments.
New recruits are also assessed and monitored as they go through a three-month academy process.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Virginia or North Carolina driver’s license. The starting salary for a deputy is $33,637, plus benefits. Interested candidates can apply online at Norfolk-Sheriff.com.
