The New Centurions

A Pace University student recently got a chance to see what it takes to be one of Ossining’s Finest. Natalie Hinz spent three months with the Ossining Police Department as an intern. The criminal justice major says she learned a great deal from the men and women of the Ossining Police Department. “I got more out of it than I was expecting because I came in not really knowing what it takes to be a police officer, but after I finished the police internship I could see myself as an officer. It really opened my eyes.”

Hinz says that her internship was incredibly valuable and that she got to experience a wide range of task—from working in Ossining P.D.’s records department to riding in the patrol car with officers.

While riding with the officers Hinz says she got a new perspective on how cops look  out for everyone in the community and while keeping our roads safe. “I think the most common misconception is that police officers are just there to give people tickets. But they’re really just there for our safety. And it’s important that they’re there out in the open and that we see them patrolling.  They’re there for the safety of everybody.”

The California native says she saw how many motorists text and use their cell phones while driving. The realization made her aware of how serious the problem is. The experience also turned her into a more careful driver.

Ossining Police Lieutenant Mike McElroy coordinated Hinz’ internship. He says the internship program is a win-win situation for both the interns and the Police Department. “The intern program works for everybody. It’s very difficult for interns to find a place where they can get out now. There’s fewer and fewer agencies now that sponsor internships. And I think we benefit by attracting people into law enforcement who are getting a good grounding on what it’s going to be all about. Not just TV and the movies, but they get to come and see the real thing and find out whether it’s right for them,” said McElroy.

Hinz’ internship wasn’t only on land, but also on water. She got a chance to go out on Ossining Police Department’s marine unit. While on their watercraft she learned about O.P.D.’s daily tasks while patrolling on the Hudson River. She was also able to see how the department helps out other municipalities when they need it.

Last month Hinz graduated from Pace with a degree in criminal justice. She is now looking forward to a career as a naval intelligence officer or a police officer.