MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) — The Mobile Police Department welcomed 10 officers to the force today, but in the 20 weeks it took to train those officers, 18 existing officers left the force. MPD officials say they're budgeted for about 488 officers and they're down 72 officers. MPD leadership is optimistic that they can keep Mobile competitive.
"It kind of doesn't feel real," says MPD Officer Jonathan Rogers.
After a long 20 weeks at the academy MPD Officer Jonathan Rogers received his diploma and his badge.
"I'm ready to get out there, hopefully get a canine, but right now I'm ready for Monday," says Rogers.
Officer rogers started with 19 cadets in his class, only 10 made it.
"I'm extremely proud," says Chief Paul Prine.
While the new additions to the force are a reason to celebrate, as of today, the MPD is currently down 72 police officers. Only having a net gain of 2 officers in the last 2 classes. Many officers either retiring or going to other cities that pay more.
"It is frustrating but you know people today like no other time in history are transit right so they will leave for what they perceive to be better opportunities," says Prine.
According to a 2022 wage survey, Mobile is ranked 18th in the state in starting pay. Wages beginning at $19.97 an hour. Mobile is ranked 16th for average hourly wage in the state. Back in March, even Mayor Stimpson spoke up about city employee retention saying he wants to remain competitive, giving police officers an incentive raise. Chief...
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