HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department is hoping $10,000 will help recruit some new officers.
The new incentive program was announced on Twitter on Tuesday.
%uD83D%uDEA8BREAKING%uD83D%uDEA8 Cadets to receive $10,000 incentive to join the Houston Police Department.This incentive allows HPD to remain competitive and attract the most qualified applicants.More details: https://t.co/DwdOWhw6iTJoin HPD: https://t.co/Fldpi6nTTr#OneSafeHoustion #HouNews pic.twitter.com/ihhxYf5E0C
%u2014 Houston Police (@houstonpolice) December 20, 2022
Newcomers are expected to get the money in three installments.
- Academy Start: $2,500 to be paid within 30 days of beginning the Police Academy
- Mid-way: $2,500 to be paid after completing three months in the Police Academy
- Completion: $5,000 to be paid after completion of the 6-month Police Academy and TCOLE requirements
Although, HPD says the employee must have demonstrated satisfactory performance and attendance based upon the department’s policies and procedures concerning review standards.
Cadets who are already in the HPD academy will receive a lump sum after becoming probationary officers. The first group of cadets is scheduled to receive their incentive pay on Jan. 13.
13 Investigates checked recent numbers from HPD and found there are nearly 60 fewer cadets right now, compared to this time last year.
“Recruiting is a challenge all police departments face,” HPD Chief Troy Finner said. “While we have been successful in our recruiting efforts and maintaining acceptance standards, this incentive allows HPD to remain competitive in the law enforcement market and continue to attract the most qualified applicants.”
