Officer Adaliz Cruz
Please give a brief history of your experience
My first position with the department was “officer of the day” in a grant funded position at the Counter Narcotics Alliance Unit in April 2004. I was there for three weeks until I was promoted into a permanent civilian position within the City of Tucson. I became a secretary for the Traffic Division in September 2005 and, in June 2006, I was promoted to police officer recruit. I graduated from Southern Arizona Law Enforcement Training Center (S.A.L.E.T.C.) in October 2006. My first patrol assignment was in Operations Division South working Thursday through Sunday from 0800-1600. The assignments that I’ve held include background investigations and special assignment coordinator. I have also participated in recruiting functions, and promotional and hiring processes for the Tucson Police Department.
What made you want to get into a career in Law Enforcement?
My first exposure to law enforcement was when I worked as a “clerk of the day” in the Counter Narcotic Alliance Unit, and when I was a secretary in the Traffic Division. In both positions, I was surrounded by sworn members of the police department. I became intrigued with law enforcement aspects and began my research and preparation on becoming an officer. I interviewed just about every police officer I encountered. At that time, I had three young daughters and I needed a job that I would be proud of; that would support my family; and that would be inspiring to my young children. I was 39 years old when I embarked on the law enforcement career.
What concerns, if any, did your family and friends have with you becoming a police officer and did their concerns change after successful completion of your training?
My family and friends were concerned about my safety because being a police officer is a dangerous job, and because my daughters were very young at that time. However, because of the extensive training that I received, I was able to alleviate some of their concerns and prove to them that I am able to perform the duties of a Police Officer.
Did you find it hard to compete with male officers during the academy and FTO program?
I enjoyed the academy experience. I was physically fit and was able to keep up with the males in the class. My field trainers were males and they did not treat me any different than the other members in the squad. I was expected to do the same work that tenured officers were doing at a similar pace. I had to learn quickly to be successful.
How do you balance family life and shift work?
In order to be successful in the law enforcement, I had to have a good support system at home. Family members assisted with the shift work schedule; and as my daughters got older, the shift schedule was no longer an issue. My family is fully aware of the sacrifices this career requires, which sometimes mean long days, nights, weekends, and missed family functions - that is the sacrifice of a public servant. They are understanding and very supportive.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation you could not handle because you were a female? If so, how did you deal with this?
I was a backup officer in a domestic violence call where the suspect was known to abuse his girlfriend. Each incident the suspect would abruptly leave and go to his parents’ house. While at his parents’ house, the suspect would call the victim, his girlfriend, and mock her. Knowing that the victim would call the police, he would immediately leave his parents property by jumping the backyard wall. When police would arrive at the suspect’s parents’ home, the he would not be there. On this day, the case officer, knowing the suspect’s escape routine, requested that officers stand-off near the front and the back of the house. I was by myself approaching on foot what I believed to be near the back of the suspect’s house. This area was adjacent to a cement wash area. During my trek, I located him, as he was crouched behind another residence nowhere near his parent’s home. Because I was alone and because of the suspect’s size, I knew that it would not be safe for me to go hands-on with this suspect. Therefore at gun point, I held the suspect at that location until officers were able to assist me in his arrest.
Did you have any issues getting hired and how did you cope with the academy physical fitness requirements?
I did not have any issues getting hired. When I made the decision to become a police officer, I began a very rigorous workout routine: running 4.5 miles every day, weightlifting, and Jujitsu training. The physical aspect of the academy was not a problem for me.
What unique qualities do you bring to TPD due to being a female?
Every situation calls for unique qualities that both genders need to have. I have found that women have a natural ability to calm most situations just by their presence. I believe that I am compassionate and sympathetic when the situation calls for it especially when the victim is distraught. I also have an authoritative presence that when needed demands attention and respect.
Give some examples of situations where being a female officer helped resolve a situation?
Being a female has helped me when dealing with young victims. Children who have been abused or molested tend to feel safe and comfortable talking to female police officers. I have also found that female victims of domestic violence also feel more comfortable talking to a female police officer.
What has been your most memorable experience as a police officer?
I was working a special assignment at the Department of Economic Security (DES). I noticed a young male run by me out the front entrance of the business. At that time, the room was full of people waiting to be seen by various DES workers. A female yelled, “Stop him, he stole my wallet.” I immediately ran after him and I was able to follow him, while transmitting his description, and his direction of travel to communications. With the combined efforts from other officers and my communication to dispatch, the suspect was apprehended and arrested for theft. When I returned to duty at DES, the occupants stared at me not asking but wanting to know if I was able to catch the 20 year old male who fled the scene. It was a great feeling to let them know that he was indeed caught and arrested for his crime.
How has the Department assisted you in reaching your career goals?
The Department routinely publishes training opportunities for all interested employees. It is highly encouraged to obtain as much training and education in any endeavor the individual chooses. This is a collaborative effort for the success of the individual and the Department as a whole, as everyone has a talent.
What advice would you give to women who want to become police officers?
I would advise any woman interested in law enforcement to do their research; to participate in ride-along programs; and to start a vigorous training program in preparation for the academy. This is truly a rewarding career.