Atlanta Police Department Reports "Critical Shortage" of Officers

The Atlanta Police Department is reportedly suffering what it calls a "critical shortage" of patrol officers as retirements and departures have left the agency woefully understaffed.

According to Fox News , the department is down an estimated 400 officers as officers have fled the ranks for jobs in other, more law-enforcement-friendly jurisdictions after anti-police protesters destroyed property and assaulted officers during demonstrations for the past several months.

Michael Bond—an Atlanta councilman issued a statement supporting police in hopes that he can convince the officers on the department that it is worthwhile to stay in Atlanta.

"We have to have a conversation," Bond said. "And show our police who are trying to do their best, that we support them."