Swansea Police Interview

What is the average population of Swansea?

population of approximately 17,537

What are the demographics of Swansea?

predominantly White (89.8%), with smaller percentages of Black (1.4%), Asian (0.9%), and other racial groups. About 6.9% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.

What is the average age of the population in Swansea?

A significant portion of the population is aged 65 and over (21.9%), while those under 18 constitute 19.3% of the population.

Median age is 44

What are popular retails in Swansea?

Walmart, Amazon, McDonald's, and Target have a presence in Swansea. 

What is the assault rate in Swansea?

114.6 per 100,000 residents.

What are the two most common crimes in Swansea?

burglary (40.1 per 100,000), theft (573 per 100,000), and motor vehicle theft (80.2 per 100,000).

What does the Swansea police department promote?

the Blue Envelope Program to facilitate positive interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops.

What is Swansea’s department mission?

protect life and property, prevent crime, and maintain trust with residents and visitors.

What are the major roadways in Swansea?

Route 6 (Grand Army of the Republic Highway)

Gardners Neck Road, which are currently undergoing intersection improvements including utility relocation, drainage improvements, and traffic signal upgrades.

What is Swansea’s misconduct prevention policy?

emphasizes the need for two adult supervisors and open-door meetings to ensure a safe environment (safety for minors)

What are the boundaries of Swansea jurisdiction?

• East: Somerset and the Taunton River.

• West: Barrington, Rhode Island.

• North: Seekonk and Rehoboth.

• Northeast: Dighton.

• South: Mount Hope Bay.

• Southwest: Warren, Rhode Island.

What is a weakness of yours?

"One of my weaknesses is being too hard on myself, especially after a mistake. I hold myself to high standards, which can be a good thing, but I’ve learned that it’s important to balance accountability with self-compassion. Through training and feedback, I’ve gotten better at recognizing that learning from mistakes is part of growing—especially in a field as challenging and high-stakes as policing."

Why do you want to be a police officer?

“I want to serve with the Swansea Police Department because of its deep connection to the community and its reputation for proactive policing and community engagement. I’m drawn to the department’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and its response to challenges like recent car break-ins and public safety concerns. I’m passionate about public service, and I believe Swansea offers a unique opportunity to work closely with residents in a town that values both tradition and growth. I want to contribute not just to enforcing the law but to building trust and helping residents feel safe and heard. I see policing here not just as a job, but as a calling to be part of a tight-knit community that I can help protect and support every day.”

What are your strengths?

Patient Person

Active Listener (Feel heard)

Collected under pressure

What is your understanding of community policing, and how would you apply it in a town like Swansea?

"Community policing is about forming partnerships between officers and the community to proactively solve problems and prevent crime. In Swansea, this means building relationships with residents, attending local events, and being a visible, approachable presence in neighborhoods. I'd make time to check in with business owners, visit schools, and engage with youth. When the community sees officers as allies rather than outsiders, trust grows—and that’s the foundation for safer, more cooperative neighborhoods."

How do you define integrity as it relates to law enforcement?

"Integrity means doing the right thing, even when nobody's watching. In policing, it means treating everyone fairly—no matter who they are, where they live, or how they treat you. In a small town like Swansea, every action reflects on the department as a whole. Integrity is what builds trust over time, and without it, our badge loses meaning."

What would you do if you saw another officer using unnecessary force?

"I would intervene immediately if the situation allowed, because preventing harm is part of my responsibility—regardless of rank or relationship. After ensuring the situation is safe, I’d report the incident according to policy. Integrity isn’t just personal—it’s how we uphold the reputation of the department. The public expects transparency, especially in towns like Swansea where the police have a direct, visible relationship with the community."

How would you build trust with residents in a small town like Swansea?

"Consistency and visibility go a long way. I’d make an effort to get to know people on my beat—store owners, parents, teens. I’d show up to community events even when off-duty, and take time during quiet shifts to have conversations that aren’t enforcement-related. When people see you as part of the community—not just someone who shows up when there’s a problem—they’re more likely to cooperate, respect the law, and trust the department."

How would you respond to a spike in vehicle break-ins in local neighborhoods?

"First, I’d work to increase patrols in the affected areas, especially during peak hours when most of the incidents are happening. I’d also collaborate with detectives to look at surveillance footage and check for patterns. Just as important, I’d engage with the community—talk to residents, encourage the use of motion lights and surveillance, and help organize a neighborhood watch. Preventing crime is as important as solving it, and communication is key."

What is important to emphasize?

Engaging with the community on and off the clock (volunteer)