Cerritos College is now accepting applications to hire a sergeant for the campus police who would act as the first-line supervisor.

Police Chief Richard Bukowiecki explained the responsibilities of the sergeant.

“It’s the first-level supervisory position, which means that the sergeant is out in the field supervising the officers who are in the field.

“It’s somebody who has more experience and can assist the officers in interpreting law and department policy,” Bukowiecki said.

Stephen Johnson, vice president of student services, said the position would be good for the capacities of the police department because it would help with a comprehensive safety program.

“[Campus police is key] to day-to-day concerns like thefts and concerns in the parking areas, but I’m also talking about the college’s disaster plan and the emergency response plan.

“Campus police is also a key partner in carrying out all the functions there,” Johnson said.

Bukowiecki also said that the application process for a police officer is much more expanded and intense than it is for non-peace officer positions because of the great responsibility.

“In addition to the normal hiring process… [The top candidates] have to go through a very intensive background investigation, into their personal character and their criminal background,” Bukowiecki said.

Johnson elaborated on the background check.

“Once an individual is identified for possible hire, as a sworn officer, then there is a comprehensive background check that is done,” Johnson said.

Johnson said that a third party that is independent of Cerritos College would conduct this background check.

He also said that if a conditional offer is made, then the candidate would be subject to the evaluations.

“If the physical and psychological evaluations are passed, then the employment is made,” Johnson said.

According to Bukowiecki, the last sergeant was Ray Reyes, and the position has remained vacant for years.

“It’s a matter of priority and budget. We actually did fly the position once and we were unable to hire from that pool.

“It’s like any other hiring process… Sometimes you’re able to fill a position and sometimes you’re not; we’re really looking forward to being able to fill it this time,” Bukowiecki said.

The application period ends on Nov. 29; the deadline is 4:30 p.m.