I worked for a local police department for some time. Two people struck me during that time:

- The Captain collected hearses, which he named and enjoyed driving around town while wearing a Hawaiian shirt. He also collected Nazi memorabilia.
- After I left the department I ran into a sergeant at the grocery store. He was wearing a red t-shirt with a Baphomet and the text "In memory of Anton LaVey."

I do believe that even in law enforcement though, they're unable to hire/not hire you based on: religion or sexual preference. However, I do know if an agency or department see red flags that they deem as being, red flags they will find a way around not hiring you.

For what it's worth, I'm in the process of joining the Navy. It's my second attempt since graduating college, so now I am officially qualified. They asked my religion and I proudly said "Satanist" and that is what they put into their information.

The recruiter said "You really want me to put that?" Of course I did and I explained to him that it's a legal and officially recognized religion and he had no problem with it.

That may be my weakness. I haven't really been one to care what people think of me personally, especially my decision to openly advocate Satanism. If people don't like it, I really don't care. Naturally this means that I don't bring it up unless it is necessary. I don't think it's necessary for an employer to know, but anyone I consider a friend, why not? It's never hurt before.

"You really want me to put that?"

As far as LaVeyan Satanism goes, you're correct.

Wow, I never would have thought the US goverment would have recognized 'Satanist' over 'Atheist.' Now I feel bad for those who simply identify as Atheist.

Atheist Dog Tags

Actually, they do put "Satanist" on dog-tages, just take a look at mine.

If you are a Cop in Po-Dunk Kentucky, Bible-Belt South, or prestine Bel-Air, Ca. You might want to keep your left hand views to yourself at all times.

Do not rock the boat, if you do not have to.

As a current Police Officer in South Central Los Angeles, it is best to keep your beliefs to yourself, until you pass your probationary status. After that speak freely about whatever.

So, I just returned from my orientation for the Police Academy & something was brought up that I found to be pretty darn cool. I'll get to that in a moment. My original goal about a year or so ago was to become a Nutritionist, because health/fitness is a huge passion of mine. However, I pondered on the idea & realized that my true calling was law enforcement. My father's a twenty-eight year veteran for the Highway Patrol & the last fifteen years of his career he worked in plain clothes, investigating crimes committed on state property. My uncle, which is my father's brother currently works at a local department, here in Southwestern, Ohio, which is right by Miami University. In fact, I've been riding along with him as of late, observing on the job. So, upon my realization that I wanted to pursue law enforcement I enrolled in a local academy to become OPOTA certified.

Today was orientation. We met in the forum to discuss the things in which we need to bring on our first day of classes, which is going to be the 12th of this month, next week, a day after my birthday. Yes, Dr. LaVey & I share the same birthday, pretty darn cool too. Our instructor, who is a police officer informed us we could not have any facial hair while going through the academy. What was said next took me my surprise, being a lifelong Satanist. He stated: "Absolutely no facial hair, goatees or Devil goatees like...oh, Anton LaVey." I was pretty taken back by the fact, because what are the odds? However, I started thinking to myself, I wonder what his views on LaVey & the CoS are exactly. I've been to a few seminars put on by cops & FBI agents that delved into the Left-Hand Path & all have seemed to have a clouded, distorted view on what the CoS represents & is about.

I'm not sure if there are any police officers here, on this board, even though I know many are card carrying members. I must inquire though, if there are & you have no problem stating that you're in the line of work that you are, has this ever been an issue for you &/or hindered your career(s) in any way shape or form? I personally don't feel a need to state my religious philosophy/beliefs to my employer, but I'm also not one who will be stifled if he is asked either. I've come up with a pretty good answer to those who ask me what my religious beliefs entail & that is...

"My life's philosophy coincides with the Left-Hand path, set forth by the late Dr. Anton Szandor LaVey." Typically speaking, I tend to get confused looks from most & they move on from there, though if asked to go into more detail I typically have no problem in doing so. However, since I have decided to pursue a career in law enforcement I'm thinking that I should stay quiet on the situation if asked, for many don't seem to know much about Satanism & its belief(s)/philosophy. Any advice from members, non-members would be much appreciated too. If I'm not mistaken the military now recognizes Satanism as a religion. If I'm incorrect, please feel free to correct me. It's a dangerous slope & I've since invested a lot of time & money into pursuing this & don't wish to shoot myself in the foot early on, or even later down the line. I find self-preservation is indeed, the highest law & want to make the most/best out of my career.

I do believe that even in law enforcement though, they're unable to hire/not hire you based on: religion or sexual preference. However, I do know if an agency or department see red flags that they deem as being, red flags they will find a way around not hiring you. Either way, I wanted to share with you all my experience today, for I found it quite amusing & I'd also like some feedback/advice as to what you might do in my situation. Keep mum, or wear it on your sleeve if asked/brought up.

Thank you!

HS!