Hey all. Current college student working two jobs with local PDs. One is a University PD, the other is city PD. Uni roll is basically campus security and safety walks for students, and city job is a police aide role (similar to explorers).
I’m planning a career in law enforcement, and from my knowledge patch collecting is fairly common. Would it be wrong or out of place for someone in my current roles to start collecting now? I have a couple patches and a few challenge coins from family members’ departments and other law enforcement internships I have worked throughout college. If it’s okay for me to start doing this, as in not looked down upon by sworn officers, how would I go about this? Just stop by stations in cities I’m visiting? Or chat up officers I run into?
Thanks!
Comments
It doesn’t hurt to ask. They do cost the officer n most cases… I usually have few coins around and available if/when asked.
Waiting to see who’s gate keeping patch collection.
But I will say r/patchtrading will ban you if you ask how to join
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I’m just about 18 and currently a part of a Junior Cadet program with a local PD. It’s similar to an Explorer program but not affiliated with Boy Scouts. It’s 100% done by the department but similar ish idea. We are technically sworn in and had to take an oath, we have leadership roles. We have two squads. 2 Corporals, 2 sergeants, (one for each squad) and a lieutenant over both. I’m currently one of the sergeants. I have started collecting challenge coins. One of course from the dept I’m involved in, the state patrol, and 2 from different agencies in Ohio where I have family. (I live in the south/east of the U.S.)
I have never been looked down upon by anyone at any agency even though I am not a law enforcement officer. I would implore you to absolutely begin collecting, trading, and networking with LEOs and departments. It’s a fun thing. If you’re involved with a PD, or in your case 2, you kind of have more access to things (ESPECIALLY challenge coins which aren’t usually available to the public) than a normal civilian would. Go for it, start collecting. And have fun! I have 6 coins (started collecting 4-5 months ago) and it’s a blast. Enjoy!