Finding-Purpose-Through-Criminal-Justice.php

Finding Purpose Through Criminal Justice

• Students
• 08/28/2025

For Brent Murphy, choosing Rock Valley College was an easy decision. A Rockford native, Brent wanted to stay close to home while pursuing his education and RVC offered just that. "It allowed me to stay close to home as well as work at the same time. So, it was just a good situation for me," he said.

 

Brent enrolled in the Criminal Justice program, a two-year degree that would ultimately help shape his future. Like many students, his path wasn't always clear. "I kind of battled the idea my whole life. I've always wanted to play sports," he said. "But towards senior year, I had to figure out what else I wanted to do." A friend who was already working in law enforcement encouraged Brent to explore the field, and that encouragement led to an internship at the City of Beloit Police Department.

The internship proved to be a turning point. "It was a good group of men and women. And then I decided to apply," Brent shared. Now working with the department, Brent credits his time at RVC and the Criminal Justice program specifically for helping him prepare for this career and opening doors to new opportunities. "I would definitely recommend the program to other students," he said. "It allowed me to meet new people and have new opportunities."

Lieutenant Cory Howes from the Beloit Police Department first met Brent when he became in an intern in 2023. “During our hiring process, candidates must complete a 300-meter run. Brent thought the finish line was 25 meters before the line and stopped, and he had to be reminded to keep running. Brent completed the run with one of the fastest times we have seen, even with a little adversity.”

As a full-time patrol officer with the City of Beloit Police Department, Brent's typical day starts at 5:25 a.m. as he prepares for his shift. His day usually ends between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. As for what comes during the day, the unknowns are always present, as no day in Law Enforcement is the same. Some are exciting, some are rough, but all are equally rewarding.

A huge mindset that keeps Brent grounded in such a demanding field is remembering that everyone's life matters, regardless of their situation. He feels a huge sense of pride in knowing that his work or actions can potentially save another person's life or lead them in the right direction. 

A quote that keeps him motivated is "Not all storms come to disrupt your life, some will clear your path. When you emerge from the storm, you won't be the same person that walked in." 

For Brent, entering law enforcement at 19 has come with challenges. "Just being young in this line of work can be tough sometimes—not really having a lot of life experience. But with the job comes life experience. You kind of grow up very fast," he continued. My education played a significant role because it allowed me to remember the things I had learned and apply them to the real world."

His role as a Police Officer has allowed Brent to make new connections with the community. His young age has also allowed others his age to see that hard work and dedication can lead to big rewards.

“Brent has received praise from the community for how he interacts with the community and with the youth,” said Lt. Howes. “He’s someone our newest officers can model after.  Brent’s future with the department and city is limitless, and I look forward to seeing his growth.”

Brent’s goals are to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible so he can pass it along to future generations. “As far as my career goals, I am still trying to figure that out. This career can throw a lot at you quickly, and it may take time to develop into the Police Officer you want to become."

Through dedication and resilience, Brent Murphy is building a meaningful career in public service and Rock Valley College was the launching point.