Interview with 8th Dist. Police Officer Karen Woods
By Mari Kornhauser and B.B. St. Roman

Where did you grow up?

In the Gentilly area.

Who lives with you at home?

I'm single. I'm raising my two kids, a son 20 and a daughter 15.

When did you join the NOPD?

In November 1980 I joined as a clerical worker. I became an officer in 1985.

What made you decide to join?

I felt a lot of people can't talk for themselves, so I thought I could be a voice for them. You have to have compassion for life, for everyone.

When did you come to the 8th?

June, 1998. At first I was on the night watch, on the desk.

How is the 8th District different from other districts?

It's a chance, because I'm dealing with a lot of tourists. People are more relaxed here and having fun, and they don't know they're breaking the law.

How do you feel you can best serve the 8th District?

By meeting people, getting people to come back to the city. There's a lot of revenue here, so we need to keep it clean and safe. I wish we had a brochure to give people at the airport and at hotels, to educate everybody coming through the city on how to carry oneself, what to do and what not to do, so they'll have a safe time.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

If I could reach one person in life each day and reroute that person's directionin a positive way, then my life wouldn't be in vain, then I'd have a purpose.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

When I see another officer in trouble or hurt or sick, and can't make the rent, it hurts his family, and it hurts me too. It emotionally affects us officers. I wish we could set up a trust fund for officers who need help.

What is one of your funniest experiences on the job?

When the officers dress out for Halloween as female impersonators, I didn't even recognize them - that was hilarious!

What's your favorite food?

A roast with macaroni and broccoli.

What's your favorite music?

Jazz.

What's your favorite cop show or movie or book?

Denzel Washington in "Training Day". I like the way he portrayed his part in teaching the rookie cop to be open-minded, to know right from wrong, to not be gullible, to not try to fit in.

If there is one thing you want people to know about you, what would that be?

That I'm going to make a difference in society.

If there is one thing you could change in this city, what would that be?

I'd like people to learn to love each other. They should put prayer and discipline back in the school system, because kids are our future.

Note: Look for Officer Woods in the mornings and early afternoons, either on the desk or cruising in Squad Car #807. Wave to her -- or better yet, stop with her and say "Hi!"