Robbinsdale Swears In Three New Police Officers, Still Short on Numbers
Some new additions to the Robbinsdale police force come at a needed time for the city.
The city swore in three new officers this week. That’s 15 percent of its current police force.
“This is one my favorite events to do. Unfortunately I don’t do it too often,” Robbinsdale Police Chief Patrick Foley told city council members at their meeting Tuesday.
Foley said the hiring process is extensive, so much so it took about a year before the officers could be sworn in.
“Becoming a police officer is a process unlike any other that I know,” said Foley.
The hiring process involves multiple interviews and a 70-page background review that goes into every aspect of a candidate’s lives, Foley said. That review includes everything from finance and family questions to an officer’s schooling and friends. The process can take several months.
In addition, officers also have to pass a psychological evaluation, strength and agility testing, drug testing and a physical. That takes many more months, Foley said.
After making it through the review process, Foley said Robbinsdale officers then go through a three-week in-house training academy, followed by 12 to 16 weeks of field training.
With the new hires, Robbinsdale is still eight officers short. The city is budgeted for 27 sworn police personnel.
The New Hires
The new hires either had family in law enforcement or grew up wanting to protect and serve.
Nick Fasching, a graduate of St. Cloud State University, was inspired by his family’s service, said Foley. Fasching’s father and one of his uncles worked more than 20 years in fire service and another uncle served as a captain with the North St. Paul Police Department.
Foley said Fasching has already saved the live of a child who was choking.
Lana Boskovic, who attended Concordia University in St. Paul, was drawn to the job by her brother, who works as a Columbia Heights police officer.
“She found that by doing the job right, police officers can truly make an impactful difference in people’s lives,” said Foley of Boskovic witnessing her brother’s police work.
Foley said Boskovic provided life-saving aid in a horrific car crash.
Zachary Angel, a Duluth native and graduate of Fond Du Lac Tribal Community College, became interested in law enforcement from interactions with officers who encouraged him to pursue the career.
“Each of these officers have already shown a commitment to the community and a dedication to service,” said Foley.
