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Education Leads To Successful Criminal Justice Career In Sacramento

Those interested in the fields of criminal justice and security have many options for employment in the Sacramento region, in both the private and public sectors. The Employment Development Department reports continued job growth is expected for private detectives, treatment specialists and criminal investigators, and overall in corrections, security, law enforcement and probation.

SAC-Crime
(Photo Courtesy of Gina Roberson)

Early 2015 has seen numerous employment opportunities become available in the Sacramento metropolitan area, with a wide range of educational and licensure requirements and compensation packages. Recent job announcements include openings for a police lieutenant, transportation security officer, private investigator, security operations center supervisor and security managers.

Gina Roberson earned her master's degree in criminal justice, and is currently the associate director at the Child Abuse Prevention Center in Sacramento. Prior to that, Roberson spent seven years as a criminal justice specialist for the CA Office of Criminal Justice Planning.

How did school shape your career path?

"Restorative justice was a relatively new idea when I was in grad school. The theory emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal acts, rather than just punishing the perpetrator. The victim's voice is very powerful, and that the restorative justice mindset had a great impact on her both at work and as a parent."

Was it hard to return to school?

"Not at all. I started grad school five years after getting my undergraduate degree. I was really goal directed and hungry for more education."

Any memorable instructors in school?

"A former Massachusetts attorney general who brought real-world experience to the classroom was particularly impactful. He showed the critical importance of policy, and how it impacts everything that happens from the neighborhood on up."

What was your favorite course?

"All of the juvenile justice classes were great.  I had worked with youthful offenders at a juvenile hall in San Francisco, and recognized that the intervention for kids needed to happen much earlier, before they were 16 or 17 years old. 'Prevention is key.'"

Valerie Heimerich is a freelance writer out of Sacramento. She typically covers animals and community issues. She has volunteered and worked for many organizations helping animals and people. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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