The middle half of all police and sheriff's patrol officers 
earned between $34,410 and $56,360 a year in 2004. The 
lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $26,910. The 
highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $68,880 a year.

The middle half of all police and detective supervisors 
earned between $49,370 and $80,510 a year in 2004. The 
lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $36,690. The 
highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $96,950 a year.

The middle half of all detectives and criminal 
investigators earned between $40,690 and $72,280 a year in 
2004. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $32,180. 
The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $86,010 a year.

Police get paid for overtime. Police also receive paid 
vacation, sick leave, and medical and life insurance. Often 
they get money for uniforms. Many retire at half-pay after 
25 or 30 years of service.