Fort Pierce Police Face Crisis Over Low Pay and High Turnover

During a recent Fort Pierce City Commission meeting, public safety emerged as a central theme, with multiple speakers addressing the urgent need for improved pay and resources for the Fort Pierce Police Department. The meeting featured poignant testimonies from current and former officers, community members, and advocates, all echoing a common concern: the high turnover rate among police officers due to inadequate compensation and support.

Retired Sergeant Dennis McWilliams highlighted the alarming trend of officers leaving for better-paying positions in neighboring cities, stating that the department's turnover has escalated from a trickle to a \"deluge.\" He emphasized that the financial struggles faced by officers not only affect their livelihoods but also compromise community safety and departmental efficiency.

Ellen Gillette, a former volunteer with the police department, reiterated the long-standing issue of low salaries, noting that despite significant investments in training new recruits, many leave shortly after gaining experience. She urged the commission to prioritize funding for a stable and well-compensated police force, which she believes is essential for community safety.

Several officers, including Detective Kevin Muhammad and Shane Stokes, shared their frustrations over stagnant wages and outdated equipment. They described the challenges of managing a high volume of calls with limited resources, stressing that the current pay structure forces many officers to seek additional jobs just to make ends meet. Stokes pointed out that the department is significantly behind surrounding agencies in terms of pay, which has led to a loss of experienced personnel.

Community members also voiced their support for the police force. Business owner Taylor Hoskins and attorney John Alford called for competitive salaries to ensure that the department can attract and retain qualified officers. Alford noted the disparity in starting salaries compared to other regions, urging the commission to take action to rectify this imbalance.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the city commission to address these pressing issues in upcoming budget discussions. As the city faces challenges related to crime and public safety, the consensus among speakers was clear: investing in the police department is crucial for the well-being of the Fort Pierce community.