JONESBORO, Ark. — Thirty-eight hopefuls gathered Saturday morning at the Jonesboro Shooting Sports Complex, taking their first steps toward joining the Jonesboro Police Department. The department's hiring process began with a challenging physical agility test designed to simulate real-world demands of law enforcement.
The state-standard course required candidates to complete tasks such as climbing fences, vaulting obstacles, crawling through window frames, and dragging 150-pound weights. The tests aim to assess the physical aptitude necessary for the job.
Among the participants was Brandon Anthony, a former college basketball player from Illinois. Anthony said the opportunity to pursue a childhood dream motivated him to take part in the tryouts.
“Growing up, playing cops and robbers, I was always a police officer,” Anthony explained. “I just love that adrenaline about catching somebody and going after somebody.”
Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott emphasized that the department is searching for recruits who bring compassion and dedication to public service.
“If you’re just looking for a job, then you probably need to go somewhere else,” Elliott said, addressing the qualities they value in applicants. “If you’re looking for a career and a passion to serve your community, then this is the place for you.”
Though the competition was intense, participants described the environment as unexpectedly supportive. Anthony noted that other candidates cheered each other on while waiting for their own turns.
“I was nervous coming into it, but having everybody cheer you on and uplift you is super, super relaxing,” he said.
Following the physical evaluations, applicants who met the required benchmarks proceeded to a written exam that afternoon. Successful candidates will advance to subsequent stages, including a background check and an interview with a selection board.
The tryout offered a rigorous but rewarding first step for individuals hoping to serve and protect the Jonesboro community.