Mayor Bass Issues Executive Directive To Accelerate The Hiring Of More LAPD Officers

Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive directive to expedite the hiring of LAPD officers, aiming to enhance public safety in Los Angeles. This directive establishes new protocols between the LAPD and the Personnel Department to streamline hiring processes and set benchmarks for officer selection, targeting completion within 180 days. Bass highlighted the critical nature of this initiative, citing a record number of applications following competitive pay agreements for officers. Councilmember John Lee expressed support, emphasizing the necessity of a skilled police force in light of upcoming significant events. The LAPD has struggled with officer attrition, losing 660 officers last year, which underscores the urgency of this hiring effort.

The directive also includes plans for a new LAPD Hiring Division within the Personnel Department. Additionally, Mayor Bass secured an agreement for funding 240 new recruits to replenish the force. This initiative is part of a larger effort to restore LAPD hiring levels and ensure public safety in Los Angeles.