RPD: Females In Law Enforcement
Females in Law Enforcement (FILE) is an initiative developed by Rochester Police Sergeant Christine A. Wilson to encourage more women to apply and become Rochester Police Officers.
The First Female Rochester Police Officer, Nellie L. McElroy, was appointed to the Rochester Police Department (RPD) on September 23, 1913. Officer McElroy, who served 23 years with the RPD, was the first policewoman in New York State and the tenth in the United States. Kathryn Green Hawkins, the first African American woman in the RPD in 1956, was promoted to Lieutenant in 1964. Today the RPD has over 739 sworn police officers, 99 of whom are female. The RPD strives to continue to promote diversity within the Department, as women currently hold ranks of Commander, Lieutenant, Sergeant and Investigator.
FILE is hosting a free, interactive information session called “FILE for a Day" on TBD, for women considering a career in law enforcement, but may have reservations or concerns preventing them from taking the Written Examination for Police Officer. The timing of the event corresponds with the City’s Civil Service Exam for Police Officer, which will be held TBD and is the first step in becoming a Rochester Police Officer.
FILE for a Day: Date TBD
Female representatives from the RPD will host "FILE for a Day" to provide an overview of all aspects of the job, including the hiring and background process, time in the Police Academy and the many different opportunities within the RPD. Officers, investigators, supervisors and members of RPD's specialized units will lead participants in interactive activities and demonstrations throughout the day. The full schedule may include representatives from Recruitment, Backgrounds, the Police Academy and Patrol, Scuba Squad, Mounted Patrol, K-9, Major Crimes, Technicians Unit and Firearms.
Register for FILE for a Day
FILE for a Day is free and open to women between 19 and 34 years-of-age who have a high school diploma or equivalent certificate, valid NYS driver license and U.S. citizenship.
Call RPD Recruitment at (585) 428-1223 or email a recruiter at recruit@cityofrochester.gov with questions or for more information. For additional information on becoming a Rochester Police Officer, click here.
Come and learn first-hand about what it takes to become a member of the RPD. Have your questions answered by experienced professionals and explore additional opportunities available through a rewarding career in law enforcement with the RPD!