Rebuilding the Force: Addressing Policing’s Recruitment and Retention Crisis

• In Event: Roundtable: Policing

Abstract

The law enforcement profession in the U.S. is facing a workforce crisis, as agencies struggle to recruit and retain qualified officers. This presentation explores the systemic challenges contributing to staffing shortages, including economic pressures, shifting public perceptions, and generational workforce trends. Drawing from a comprehensive policy study, this session will present data-driven insights into why recruitment efforts are faltering and why retention rates continue to decline.

The discussion will highlight key barriers to hiring, such as increased competition from the private sector, declining institutional trust, and the impact of reduced hiring standards on policing outcomes. Additionally, we will examine retention issues, including officer burnout, lack of career mobility, and the financial burden of training and replacing departing officers. The presentation will offer evidence-based recommendations for law enforcement agencies, researchers, and policymakers emphasizing long-term workforce development strategies, innovative hiring practices, and structural changes to make policing a viable career for future generations.

By addressing the root causes of the recruitment and retention crisis, this research aims to provide solutions that enhance law enforcement staffing levels, improve investigative capacity, and strengthen police-community relations to ensure agencies can attract, develop, and retain a highly skilled, professional, and resilient workforce.

Authors

• Jillian E. Snider, Nova Southeastern University / John Jay College of Criminal Justice / R Street Institute

• Logan Seacrest, R Street Institute