After facing a significant shortage of officers in recent years, the Stockton Police Department is on the road to recovery. With a surge in applicants and strong support from City Hall, the department is optimistic about its future.
On Saturday morning, 151 hopeful applicants gathered at San Joaquin Delta College to take a preliminary test, with 131 passing the first step toward joining the force. Chief of Police Stanley McFadden expressed confidence in the department’s progress, stating, "We're building back. We're being more visible." He emphasized that the department's proactive approach has contributed to a noticeable reduction in crime.
For months, Stockton Police have been holding these tests, often drawing hundreds of applicants. The department’s recruiting strategy, led by Lieutenant Anabel Morris, has focused on building relationships with candidates. "This is the highest number of applicants we've had," Morris said, crediting the new outreach efforts and strong community connections.
City Hall has also played a crucial role in this recovery by offering higher salaries and $15,000 signing bonuses to new recruits. These incentives have made a difference, with many applicants, like Bay Area native Jesus Gonzalez, eager to start their careers in law enforcement. “Once I applied, they got back to me within 24 hours,” Gonzalez said.
While it will take about a year and a half for these new recruits to complete their training and officially join the force, the department is already feeling the effects of its improved recruiting efforts. Chief McFadden highlighted a 70% increase in handgun seizures and overall crime reduction as signs that their work is paying off.
Despite these successes, there are still 55 vacancies left to fill. However, with the growing interest in joining the force, McFadden is optimistic that Stockton will soon have a fully staffed department. “My hat's off to our recruiting unit and our community members that are also out there saying, 'Hey, give Stockton Police Department a chance,’” McFadden added.
With a strong turnout of candidates and continued support from the city, the future looks brighter for Stockton’s police force.