Oklahoma City Police Department expands recruitment with innovative cadet program

The Oklahoma City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the city's police recruitment efforts. The police department has shifted its training approach, reducing the number of annual academies from three to two while increasing class sizes. The first class of 2025, which began in February, has 71 recruits, the largest cohort in recent years, with 61 still in training and set to graduate on July 6.

Looking ahead, the department aims to start a new academy class in August with a target of 80 recruits. Officials expressed optimism about attracting individuals committed to serving the community, noting a growing interest in law enforcement careers. Other cities have shown interest in Oklahoma City's innovative recruitment strategies.

A key component of this initiative is the cadet program, which currently has 63 participants. This program engages high school students as young as 15 or 16, providing mentorship from police officers and introducing them to community service and the pathway to becoming police officers. The program aims to nurture local youth, fostering a sense of community service and encouraging them to consider careers in law enforcement.

Overall, these efforts reflect Oklahoma City's proactive approach to building a strong police force by investing in the community's youth and enhancing recruitment strategies.