The Dallas Police Department is working to increase its ranks while balancing academy staffing with maintaining officers on patrol, Interim Chief Michael Igo told the city council on Monday.
The city council’s public safety committee voted in favor of a plan calling for the department to hire 325 officers this year, with a goal of increasing that number to 400 in two years.
"I'm very, very proud of our recruiting team. They're working above and beyond, including working extra hours outside their normal duty hours," Igo said. "We're looking at hiring more in the state."
Igo expressed confidence that the department can meet its hiring goals while ensuring adequate coverage on city streets.
Igo also told the city council on Monday that overall crime in the city is declining, but business robberies have increased 30% in the last year.
He said there are eight specific crews responsible for many of the robberies, often using a tactic where one person distracts the store owner while others steal merchandise. The groups quickly flee the scene after the thefts.
Despite the rise in business robberies, Dallas has seen a significant drop in violent crime, with murders down 47% from last year.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube