If Sgt Ames has only been on the force two years and is already a Sgt she would have had to do something very compelling as an officer to rise that fast. She would not be wasted as a secretary but would be be used more often as a detective.
Molly is frying pork chops on the stove and then goes to take a shower while they're still on the burner. That's a good way to start a house fire.