By Kendall Wright
The Arizona Republic
Related: Shaq at botched Va. raid while working as reserve deputy
TEMPE, Ariz. — Tempe should brace itself for a Shaq attack.
Police confirmed Tuesday that Phoenix Suns star Shaquille O’Neal is set to become a volunteer with the Tempe Police Department in the near future.
O’Neal was at the station last Thursday to discuss with Police Chief Tom Ryff what he will be doing within the department, said Sgt. Cindy Davies, a police spokeswoman.
While playing for the Miami Heat before being traded to the Suns, O’Neal was a reserve officer for the Miami Beach Police Department, drawing a salary of $1 a year. He also was a reserve officer in Los Angeles when he played for the Lakers.
“It is so nice to see a person with so much influence want to get involved in the community,” Davies said. “He is a leader, and hopefully his support will encourage others to get involved, too.”
Davies said it has not been determined what duties O’Neal will be assigned, but he will most likely start work after the season is over.
“Tempe is a great place to live, work and play, plus we have a robust volunteer program within the police department,” said Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman. “We know law enforcement is a passion of Shaq’s, and we would love to match that passion.”
Copyright 2008 The Arizona Republic