In 2023, police departments in the United States saw an increase in the number of sworn officers being hired for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic and the killing of George Floyd in 2020. This surge in hiring was accompanied by a decrease in the number of officers resigning or retiring, as reported by a survey conducted by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) involving 214 law enforcement agencies. The national protests that followed Floyd’s death highlighted issues of police brutality and accountability, leading to a significant exodus of officers from many departments. The resulting shortage of officers forced departments to reprioritize their resources, often moving officers away from investigative work or quality of life issues to address increasing crime rates.
Chuck Wexler, the executive director of PERF, noted that the past four years have been particularly challenging for American policing, but the recent hiring trends indicate a potential turning point. While some departments are making progress in hiring and retention, others are still struggling to attract and keep officers. Larger departments continue to face staffing shortages, with some still more than 5% below their pre-pandemic staffing levels. The survey also revealed that smaller departments, which make up the majority of agencies nationwide, are experiencing higher rates of resignations and retirements, indicating ongoing challenges in recruitment and retention.
To address staffing issues, many departments have increased officer pay, offered signing bonuses, and adjusted their hiring processes. However, Maria “Maki” Haberfeld, a criminal justice expert, raised concerns about departments lowering education requirements and other standards to bolster their numbers quickly. She emphasized the importance of recruiting qualified individuals who possess the necessary skills and emotional intelligence to make split-second decisions in high-pressure situations. Haberfeld warned that any gains made through incentives could be temporary and easily reversed, especially in light of recent incidents involving police response to protests.
In addition to pay and benefits, changes in public perception of law enforcement agencies have also contributed to improved officer retention rates. Some departments have reexamined their application requirements, allowing visible tattoos and expediting background checks, in an effort to attract more candidates. Despite these adaptations, PERF remains firm on not compromising on training standards or applicant qualifications. While the survey showed a significant decrease in resignations in 2023 compared to previous years, retirements varied depending on the size of the departments. Larger agencies experienced fewer retirements, while smaller departments reported elevated retirement rates.
Overall, the increase in hiring and retention of police officers in 2023 signals a positive development for law enforcement agencies across the country. However, challenges remain in attracting and retaining qualified candidates, particularly in smaller departments. The ongoing efforts to address staffing shortages through increased incentives and revised hiring practices underscore the complex and evolving nature of policing in America. As departments navigate these changes, the importance of maintaining high standards of training, professionalism, and accountability in the law enforcement profession remains paramount to rebuilding public trust and safety.
