Psychology, sociology, and Spanish are tools new Marion police officer Jimmie Hunter II, 25, plans to use on the job.

In the coming weeks, Hunter looks forward to studying laws and investigation tactics during his Police Academy training, a step on his way to becoming an officer.

“I love to learn,” he said.

Hunter, who studied several of these subjects at Wartburg College in Waverly, thinks this knowledge will help him patrol Marion. He said his understanding of human nature helps him communicate, gives him empathy, and helps him resolve issues quickly.  

Soon, he’ll get to test those skills as a full-fledged patrol officer responding to calls in the Marion area.

Hunter applied for police jobs in Cedar Falls, Waverly, and Marion. He said he chose this area — despite a lower salary offer — in part because Marion is an active, progressive, growing community.

Though most police applicants major in criminology, many also have psychology degrees, said Marion Police Lt. Richard Holland.

“They seem to go hand-in-hand,” Holland said.

Both Holland and Hunter agree Spanish will likely help him on his patrol. Though a couple other Marion officers know some Spanish, none are as fluent as Hunter, Holland said. During college, Hunter studied abroad in Mexico.

Before coming to Marion, Hunter worked as a jailer in Bremer County. Prior to that, he worked at a rehabilitation center for juveniles in Waverly. Though Hunter enjoyed working with youth, he recently discovered he’s more passionate about being an officer.

His work with young people still informs his passion for police work. He said he hopes to change some kids’ negative perceptions of police officers. He wants to emphasize his role as a helper in the community.  

“I truly admire the position of a police officer,” he said. 

This week, Hunter went to a swearing in ceremony with Mayor Allen “Snooks” Bouska. After Police Academy, he’s set for 12 weeks of field training with various officers, who will evaluate him. If he does well, he will become an officer on a one-year probation period.  

Before he started training, Hunter underwent a background check, interview and fitness and written evaluations.

Holland said Hunter brings his education, confidence, and ability to work with people to the Marion Police department. He added Hunter has a great sense of humor.