Shaquille O'Neal Applies To Join Miami Police

Retired NBA star Shaquille O'Neal has brought new meaning to the phrase 'long arm of the law' - by applying to be a reserve police officer in Florida.

The 7ft 1in-tall basketball legend is set to fight crime on the streets of Doral, near Miami, if his application is accepted.

He must first pass psychological and physical tests to ensure he is fit enough to join Miami Beach Police Department, said city spokeswoman Christina Baguer.

She said 'Shaq' submitted his request on Wednesday and would be given no preferential treatment.

"If he passes (the first stage of the application), he will then have to do everything else to be certified by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, just like any of our other officers, reserve or not reserve," she told the Miami Herald.

The 42-year-old - a four-time NBA champion - left professional basketball in 2011 after stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics.

He apparently has some previous experience as a cop.

According to local media, he served briefly as a reserve officer in Miami Beach in 2005.