Sgt Joelle Harrell

Why did you become a police officer?

Growing up, I looked up to my grandfather and father, who served in the U.S. Army. As a young girl, I admired old photographs of them in their uniforms, which radiated order and discipline, qualities that truly appealed to me. It wasn’t until I got older that I fully grasped the sacrifices they made.

I initially wanted to follow in their footsteps and join the military, but my mother firmly discouraged me from taking that path. During high school, I participated in a youth program focused on gaining work experience. At a job fair, I had the chance to meet two well-dressed Hispanic women: one from the San Francisco Police Department and the other from the California Highway Patrol. Their engaging presentations and personal stories about the importance of their roles in law enforcement caught my attention and ignited my interest in this career.

That summer, I aimed to delve deeper into law enforcement by securing a job with the San Francisco Police Department. However, all positions had already been filled, so I ended up at the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office. This marked the beginning of my law enforcement journey at age 21 in 1993. During my six and a half years there, I gained invaluable insights into the jail system, the court process, and the diverse community we served. As I felt I was outgrowing the responsibilities of a deputy, I sought greater challenges and applied to the SFPD, where I was thrilled to be hired on October 4, 1999.

What motivates you to succeed?

What motivates me to succeed is the promise I have accepted and genuinely believe in: the Code of Ethics. It emphasizes our commitment to protect and serve. I strive to uphold this promise daily, demonstrating my dedication to its principles. I aim to meet the expectations of a law enforcement officer, as I genuinely believe our role is to help, inform, and guide others.

What’s your most memorable moment on the job?

With over 31 years of service, I’ve encountered a wide range of challenges and triumphs. However, the moments that stand out most are those where I upheld the sanctity of life and provided immediate help to those in need.

What challenges have you faced?

At just 21 years old, I encountered significant challenges that ultimately shaped my resilience and adaptability. Balancing marriage, caregiving for my grandmother with Alzheimer’s, working full-time, and raising a young child taught me invaluable lessons in time management and prioritization.

As I prepared for my job requirements, I embraced the competitive atmosphere of the academy, where experienced recruits generously shared their insights, helping me develop effective study and practical skills. Graduating to the Field Training Program allowed me to adapt to rotating shifts, learn the intricacies of the district, and elevate my performance standards, all of which contributed to my growth in this demanding role.

What advice do you have for women considering a profession in policing?

• Pursue your educational goals with determination. The more knowledge you acquire, the better equipped you’ll be.

• Believe in yourself.

• Take the time to thoroughly understand the mission of the law enforcement department and the community it serves. This knowledge will help you align your aspirations with their objectives.

• Familiarize yourself with the department’s expectations, culture, and available resources for professional development and personal growth. This will help you assess whether the department’s values and opportunities fit your professional and life plans.

• Prioritize physical fitness by exercising regularly and developing a workout routine suited to your needs.

• Know where and who your support is. Learn effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or time management, to maintain your mental health and well-being. Strive to cultivate resilience and emotional stability to navigate the demands of a law enforcement career.

• Maintain a strong sense of self and avoid becoming solely defined by your profession. Embrace a variety of interests and pursuits outside of your daily responsibilities. Consider exploring hobbies such as painting, hiking, or playing a musical instrument, and make time for activities that challenge you mentally or physically, like joining a sports league or volunteering in your community. Engaging in these diverse experiences can provide a well-rounded perspective and enrich your life beyond the routine demands of your job.