The decision to become a police officer is often influenced by diverse motivations that vary across individuals. In a negative occupational climate context, understanding the initial motivations of police recruits becomes essential for improving recruitment strategies and informing policy. In this study, we surveyed police academy recruits enrolled in a large urban police academy in Texas to explore their motivations for joining the police force, specifically focusing on different forms of fear associated with the occupation. Our findings reveal significant variations based on demographics, particularly concerning various fears associated with the policing profession. These insights hold crucial implications for recruitment practices and policy-making, providing valuable information for better understanding the factors influencing police recruits’ decision-making processes and contributing to a more informed and practical approach to police recruitment and occupational support.