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Arlington police outline staffing, technology upgrades and a sharp rise in reported shoplifting
Summary
The Arlington County Police Department briefed the board on recruitment and retention, technology investments including drones and license‑plate readers, and an increase in shoplifting and robberies during a budget work session.
Arlington County Police Chief presented the department’s FY26 budget priorities to the County Board, emphasizing pay adjustments to retain staff, investments in technology and training, and a new campaign to address retail theft.
Chief said staffing remains the department’s top challenge. Authorized sworn positions total 377; functional staffing (officers fully trained and available) was reported at 266. The department has lost significant senior experience in recent years and is working to retain current staff while recruiting new officers through expanded outreach and a new recruitment website (joinarlingtoncountypd.com) and a vendor contract for targeted…
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