Rochester, N.Y. (WHAM) — Sgt. Justin Collins, who oversees recruitment and retention for the Rochester Police Department, stated that they are short by approximately 100 staff members, as retirements are not matching the number of new recruits. In other words, they need to replenish their numbers and get officers back on duty with badges and uniforms.
We aim to hire just over 100,” he stated. “On average, we expect to bring on approximately 800 to 900 individuals, although many will leave during the process.
Collins expressed gratitude for a new state policy, which prompted the RPD to seize the opportunity to implement changes in their hiring process.
The previous cutoff for enrollment was 35. You can now be inducted at 43, creating a seven-year period that was previously unavailable.
MORE: Rochester police are looking for new candidates as the age limit for the entrance exam is increased.
You can take the test at 42 and then turn 43 while working as a police officer,” he said. “We simply want to evaluate the entire candidate and not just focus on their age.
The real physical fitness assessment that Collins referred to includes push-ups, sit-ups, and a running event. Every aspect is precisely timed, recorded, and supervised by an RPD official.
Due to a bad back and a damaged knee, I took the test and performed reasonably well. Under this new policy, military veterans such as myself are now able to enroll up until the age of 50.
There is also a written examination that lasts approximately four hours. Collins mentions that being able to access the talent pool over 35 is “a blessing.”
I mean, there are some 41-year-olds who are in better physical condition than 19-year-olds. It depends on the situation,” he said. “So we want the chance to evaluate that candidate and give them an opportunity to work for our police department.
Collins mentioned that over the past week and a half, they have begun reviewing approximately 200 applicants, and individuals seeking a second opportunity after the age of 35 are saying “I’m in.”
I’d say I’ve already met at least 40 to 50 of those candidates who are over 35 years old,” he said, “so that’s really exciting.
Collins also wants to emphasize that you don’t need to reside in Rochester to be employed by the RPD.
“You are welcome from any country. You don’t need to reside in the city,” he said.
CLICK HEREto find out how to register and obtain more information about pay and perks.
MORE: Rochester police department welcomes 13 recent graduates of the Workforce Development Program
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