Retired Officer Hits The Recruitment Trail For KCPD

Image of Officer Judy Williams

While in college and working at a 7-Eleven, Judy Williams had designs on becoming a special education teacher. That was her plan, anyway.

Though her father was an officer at KCPD, Williams hadn’t considered doing the same. But when she befriended some officers at the convenience store, they invited her to go on some ride-alongs. There, these experiences captivated Williams and her plan dissolved.

She would follow her heart to policing.

From 1997 to 2023, Williams proudly served at KCPD, hence Kansas City, too. Most of her career was at South Patrol Division.

“What I liked about being in patrol was the variety,” explained Williams. “I thought about working in our juvenile unit or as a homicide detective, but I liked seeing something different every day.”

Though retired now, Williams is still serving. She’s a reserve officer in KCPD’s Employment Section, helping to recruit much-needed new officers. Williams answers questions and gives insight at recruiting events. She shares what it's like to work at the region's largest law enforcement agency. On this note, Williams is proud of the strides KCPD is making to recruit more female officers. 

In retirement, something has caught Williams off-guard. After spending 20+ years working in South Patrol, she is now meeting people who remember her.

“I used to work in the schools on my off days, and probably twice a month, someone will recognize me from that,” Williams said. “Someone else might bump into me and thank me for the gas money I helped them with. It’s great knowing you are appreciated.”

#BlackHistoryMonth

KCPD has police officer openings. Are you interested? Apply here.