Police officers are some of our communities' most important people. These men and women put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe and protect the people living in them. Readers learn about the life of police officers and the tough and unique tasks they face. Readers will learn what it takes to become a police officer and the paths they can take to one day have a career in law enforcement. Specialized careers--such as crime scene investigators, detectives, and animal-focused jobs--are examined in depth. The text also covers high-interest topics such as police equipment, crime fighting, and the risks and rewards that accompany this career. The main text is enriched by instructive diagrams, informative sidebars, and helpful fact boxes.