What about the cops' hair??

Question

I know this is a stupid question, but im 18 right now and i was considering going into law enforcement. This just came across my mind though: i noticed that all male cops have some serious army haircuts! I'm talkin 1's and 2's!! Never really noticed it before until seeing a bunch of em on tv. I was wondering...are officers required to keep their hair that short?

Thanks for the answers so far...you guys are awesome

=)

Answer 1

It does vary from agency from agency. But the general rule across the board is the hair can't touch the collar or go over the ears.

Also as far as facial hair, most agencies will require you to be clean shaven, or will allow a moustache. But you can't have scruff. Always have to shave (unless the moustache). Also, the moustache can't extend beyond the corners of the mouth and must be kept trimmed to not cover the top lip.

Keep in mind, a lot of cops that keep their hair that short do it for one of two reasons: ex-military and just used to the cut, or for safety.

What I mean by safety is if you are a cop and get in a scuffle with someone you are trying to arrest - the last thing you need is for them trying to grab a fistful of your hair. So it gives them less leverage in trying to fight back. Although as a cop you shouldn't let them get to that point, but just in case.

So if you really dig your hair, and like it longer than collar length or like having a goatee or something... you either need to re-think law enforcement or let go of your desire for more hair.

Answer 2

Most departments have no rules on hair length per SE. The Officers keep it short because it is much easier to wear, is more safe, and gives a neat professional authoritative appearance. I keep my hair in a high&tight, some of my buddies prefer a recon. I always get compliments on the hairstyle. Try it, if you don't like it it will always grow back.

Answer 3

Where I worked at a large PD in OH, all officers in uniform were required to keep their hair off their shirts. Officers with long hair have been known to get it pulled when they get into scuffles with the criminal element so now all are required to keep it short or for women with longer hair, pinned up and under their hat. Only exception are undercover officers who have to "blend in" but they also don't wear the uniform :)

Answer 4

There generally arent policies for "keeping your hair short" but most male cops do because otherwise it just gets in the way. Alot of cops have military backgrounds which is why they keep the crew cut or shaved head.
Me personally, I have longer hair and Im a cop, its not a requirement. It would stupid for a cop to have long overgrown hair because 1. it would get in the way and 2. its something for a criminal to pull on in a fight. 3. it looks unprofessional.

Answer 5

My Dad is A Cop in the law Enforcment area. It doesnt have to be short. It can be any length, It just has to be pulled up when your working. Thats the answer. lol =]

Answer 6

I know a few departments have it where males are not aloud to have hair past or touching their collar. But it varies between departments. Like it was said before, it looks more professional and it's one less thing the criminals can use to fight back.

Answer 7

Every department has it's own rules. I have never seen anyone with really long hair in law enforcement.

Answer 8

Every agency has their own rules, but in most every case, for uniformed officers it has to be off the collar and over the ears for males.

Answer 9

the only thing required of a haircut is not over your ears and collar

Answer 10

Above the collar and above the ears, if you're in uniform.

If you're undercover, then whatever is required for your UC persona.