By Joanna Putman
Police1
SAN FRANCISCO — Three recruit classes currently training at the San Francisco Police Department Academy represent the most cadets training at the same time since before the pandemic, a San Francisco news release states.
Academy class 282, which includes 19 recruits, began training Jan. 16, according to the release. Class 280 will graduate from the academy in February, and class 281 in May.
The three classes reflect an increase in applications to become an SFPD officer which began in 2022. Mayor London Breed and the SFPD have attributed the increase to recent recruiting incentives, such as increased starting pay, a shortened hiring process and free one-day testing events.
“Efforts to boost recruiting in San Francisco are paying off,” Chief Bill Scott stated. “The SFPD is moving in the right direction, and I’m overjoyed to see so many applicants wanting to join our department. They have begun their journey to be part of one of the most historic police forces in the nation that stands as a model for how reform and public safety go hand-in-hand.”
The release also reported key crime decreases, including a nearly 50% drop in car break-ins and thefts, despite a staffing shortage. The next academy class is expected to begin later this spring, according to the release.