The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is struggling to recruit new officers as the number of sworn personnel continues to decrease, Chief Michel Moore told the Police Commission Oct. 4.
Over the last three years, the department has lost more than 600 officers, and each month they’re losing a minimum of 50 sworn personnel due to retirement, Moore said. At least 60 new personnel each month are needed to make up the difference, but there aren’t enough new recruits, according to Moore.
As a result of fewer officers in the city, there has been an increase in crime in several categories and longer emergency response times, according to the chief. Certain departments have been downsized or completely eliminated, such as the cold case unit and that which seeks fugitive warrants, Moore said….