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#MakeADifferenceMonday: Up for the Challenge

It's Make A Difference Monday and what better way to do that than protect and serve? Our Senora Scott caught up with Marcus Hartnett, one of the San Angelo Police Department's newest officers. He told her about his path to law enforcement.

SAN ANGELO, TX — "I was nervous, as I think everyone is starting a new career. Having to complete the academy to be able to be considered an officer and go through the extensive training. In the end, we fought through it, me and the eight other cadets and we're almost there and it's just the beginning.

I grew up in small town out West, Ft. Davis, Texas and I graduated from there and moved up here to San Angelo to pursue my degree in criminal justice, and I graduated with my degree. Then I went on to work at the Eden Detention Center for two years, and then I decided I needed to figure out what to actually do with my life so I applied for SAPD and hopefully get to start a long career here with the San Angelo Police Department. It was something that I've wanted to do and it's exciting that I actually get to get out there and start my career.

I know this line of work is pretty dangerous and it's just getting it through your head and wanting to get out there and help the community.

Take my advice if you will. I ask that every decision you make no, matter how big or small, you're fair, you're consistent, you're empathetic.

Population will change, technology will change, the direction of law enforcement will change, many things will change, but one thing that remain throughout your career, no matter the changes, is how you treat somebody.

The instructors, have given you the basic tools. The rest is up to you.

I just knew it was going to be a challenge and I was up for that challenge,” Hartnett said.

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