Phoenix Police Department reports record recruitment increases and successful hiring strategies

The Phoenix Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding police recruitment and community safety initiatives, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety.

One of the key topics was the police department's successful recruitment efforts, which have seen a remarkable doubling of applications compared to the previous year. Commander Sarah Garza reported that community-oriented recruitment strategies, including engaging advisory boards and hosting Instagram live sessions, have effectively attracted a diverse pool of candidates. Notably, the percentage of female applicants has also seen a slight increase, reflecting the department's commitment to inclusivity.

The subcommittee learned that the police academy is on track to exceed last year's hiring totals, with an additional class scheduled to begin in July, allowing for the training of 40 more recruits. This increase in class sizes is a response to the growing demand for police personnel and aims to shorten the hiring cycle from eight weeks to six weeks, expediting the onboarding process for new officers.

In addressing attrition, Commander Garza noted that most departures are due to normal retirement after 20 years of service. The department has implemented a successful "sweat program" to prepare recruits physically before they enter the academy, resulting in zero failures in the physical fitness test, a significant achievement compared to other academies in the state.

The meeting also touched on the recently signed SB 1287, which introduces part-time officer positions to help retain trained officers who may need flexible work arrangements due to family obligations. This legislation is expected to positively impact officer retention and community safety.

In a separate discussion, community concerns were raised regarding fire department response times. A resident highlighted alarming delays in emergency responses, urging the city council to prioritize funding for fire services. The resident's comments underscored the urgency for immediate action to address public safety needs, particularly as Phoenix continues to grow.

As the meeting concluded, the subcommittee members expressed gratitude for the hard work of the police department and emphasized the importance of ongoing recruitment and training efforts to ensure a well-prepared and responsive public safety workforce. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing community safety and addressing the challenges faced by both police and fire services in Phoenix.