Waiting for a recall doesn't pay the bills for laid-off officers. Fortunately, most officers who are laid off may no longer be on the job, but they are not forgotten by their comrades.
The Toledo (Ohio) Police Department held dinners and raffles, and its retired officers donated food cards to help their downsized counterparts. Camden, N.J., held fundraisers, including a beef and beer silent auction and a shirt drive. A comedy show is in the works.
The Newark Police Department's PIO says the agency contacted other agencies to find work for its unemployed officers. "We worked with unions. We worked within the state and out of the state, and a lot of officers did get placed as certified officers." Newark also had a seminar for laid-off officers. "We provided them with as much information as we could. Any job openings we heard of, we posted."
Toledo's Capt. Jim O'Bryant says his department explained insurance and unemployment to help officers understand what to do. Ditto Camden.
Officers are also turning to social media and the importance of savvy networking skills. Some departments post on Facebook, and some officers have joined LinkedIn, posted their profiles, and joined groups.
Related:
Officer Layoffs: Getting a Pink Slip
Officer Layoffs: Two Lives
Layoffs and Reality