IMPD expands training in effort to recruit more officers

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has had a hard time meeting staffing goals for the past few years. Now it’s making changes that could add more police officers to its ranks.

The moves change the recruitment and training processes. The department’s application process will open up every four months instead of every six.  That means three recruit classes will start at the IMPD Academy every year. 

IMPD Chief Randal Taylor said this will help catch potential officers who may go to another department because of timing.

“Adding an additional class means we don’t leave officers on the vine,” Taylor said.

The law enforcement profession has dealt with recruitment problems in recent years.  IMPD is about 200 short of its goal of more than 1,800 officers.  About 30 to 50 officers graduate in a class.

Taylor said too many potential candidates don’t consider law enforcement a viable career.

“I believe there are people out there who are qualified and want to do the job and we’re just looking to make that connection with them and find them,” Taylor said.

IMPD says about 20 percent of officers who apply ultimately end up on the force.

The new recruitment process means that classes will overlap.  The department is currently constructing new classrooms and facilities to help facilitate training.

Last year, IMPD raised the salary for new officers to nearly $62,000 a year with a $10,000 sign on bonus.  The new budget also funds an increase for civilian police officers.

Public safety is a core issue for many mayoral candidates this year.  Indianapolis has dealt with record violence, and a number of candidates agree that a better staffed department is key.

Democratic candidate Robin Shackleford released a public safety plan that suggested the removal of a credit check for applicants and a home-buying assistance program could help boost recruitment.

Republican candidate Abdul-Hakim Shabazz said increasing staff is more about improved morale.  Shabazz said he would stand with law enforcement officers to ensure they have the resources they need.

People who want to become police officers in Indianapolis must be a U.S. citizen, 21-years-old, and have a driver’s license and high school diploma. 

IMPD is actively recruiting for its 28th recruit class, which will begin in December.