Wilmington Extends Application Deadline for Police Academy, Lifts Age Limit
October 9, 2024
In a move aimed at bolstering recruitment, Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki and Police Chief Wilfredo Campos announced today an extension of the application deadline for the 104th Wilmington Police Academy to November 1. This decision comes alongside the lifting of the previous age limit for applicants, which was set at 37, following a collaborative agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 1.
The changes are intended to attract a broader range of candidates to the police force, which, like many across the nation, is grappling with recruitment challenges. According to a recent report from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), nearly a quarter of police departments nationwide have reported difficulties in filling vacancies, with a significant number of officers retiring early or leaving the profession entirely. This trend highlights the need for innovative strategies to attract new talent.
Cadets take the oath of office in front of family and friends during the 102nd Police Academy graduation Friday, January 5, 2024; at JP Morgan Chase Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Selected applicants for the Wilmington Police Department will begin their careers with a starting salary of $65,000, which is set to increase to $87,929 by the fifth year of service. Additionally, there is no residency requirement for new officers, a factor that may further widen the applicant pool.
“We hope that lifting the age limit will expand the range of applicants for our next academy while providing more people the opportunity to join our agency,” said Chief Campos. He indicated that the department has received inquiries from prospective candidates who are nearing the previous age threshold and those considering law enforcement as a second career after military service or other professions.
The recruitment process will include a written examination, a physical fitness assessment, and a series of interviews, culminating in a final interview with the Chief. Interested candidates can reach out to Sgt. Aaron Metzner at (302) 576-3177 or (302) 379-2270, or via email at Aaron.Metzner@cj.state.de.us. Further information is also available on the Wilmington Police Department’s recruitment webpage at www.WilmingtonDE.gov/PoliceAcademy.
As cities nationwide face similar challenges, Wilmington’s proactive approach may serve as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to enhance their law enforcement recruitment strategies amid an evolving landscape of public safety needs.