Milwaukee mayor seeks experienced officers for police force

WISCONSIN LAW JOURNAL STAFF//November 25, 2024//

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson speaking about efforts to combat reckless driving. Staff Photo: Steve Schuster

WISCONSIN LAW JOURNAL STAFF//November 25, 2024//

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Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson highlighted a new Fire and Police Commission initiative Monday to boost the recruiting numbers for the Milwaukee Police Department. The city is inviting current police officers from other jurisdictions with at least one year of experience to sign up to serve Milwaukee.

Those who formally enroll to be police officers in the next few weeks could be eligible for a $10,000 bonus, according to officials.

The bonus arrangement will be decided by the Common Council with Alderman Peter Burgelis sponsoring the measure.

“Reflecting a trend seen across the country, applications to join the Milwaukee Police Department have been lagging. The city is facing statutory requirements over the coming years to increase the number of police officers,” officials said.

Johnson spoke Monday at 11 a.m. describing the initiative. Also in attendance, Alderman Peter Burgelis and Fire and Police Commission Executive Director Leon Todd.