Ridgecrest Police Chief requests council approval for additional officer position amid attrition concerns

The Ridgecrest City Council meeting on January 15, 2025, highlighted significant developments for the local police department, focusing on staffing and the introduction of body-worn cameras.

The Ridgecrest Police Department is seeking authorization for an additional police officer position, bringing the total to 33. Chief of Police emphasized that the department has faced an attrition rate of approximately 4.5 officers per year over the last decade, which has strained staffing levels. Currently, with several officers in training and others out due to injuries, the department is operating at about 70% capacity. The proposed position aims to proactively address these staffing challenges and ensure that the department can maintain its service levels to the community.

The financial implications of this new position are manageable, as the department anticipates that salary savings from current vacancies will cover the costs for the remainder of the fiscal year. However, the ongoing cost of the new position is estimated at $83,525 annually, which will be factored into future budgets.

In addition to staffing, the council discussed a five-year agreement with Lenslock Inc. for body-worn cameras and in-car video systems. Chief of Police presented the benefits of implementing this technology, which include enhancing investigations, improving officer-community interactions, and providing training opportunities. The department is currently one of the few in the area without body cameras, and community feedback has shown overwhelming support for their introduction.

The contract with Lenslock is structured to begin with no upfront costs until the next budget cycle, allowing the department to implement the system without immediate financial strain. The total cost for the five-year contract is projected at $547,190, which includes equipment upgrades every 30 months. The chief assured the council that privacy concerns have been addressed through a comprehensive policy that governs camera usage, ensuring that recordings are made only during relevant incidents.

The council members expressed their support for both initiatives, recognizing the importance of maintaining adequate police staffing and enhancing transparency through body-worn cameras. The discussions underscored a commitment to improving public safety and fostering trust between the police department and the community.

As Ridgecrest moves forward with these initiatives, the city aims to bolster its police force while embracing technology that enhances accountability and service delivery. The council's approval of these measures reflects a proactive approach to addressing the needs of the community and ensuring effective law enforcement in the years to come.