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The lingering bad economy continued to cause havoc on American law enforcement. Many law enforcement agencies have been forced to downsize dramatically, including laying off officers in unprecedented numbers. So-called "non-essential" services are being eliminated.
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Recently completed audits presented to the council in July estimated outsourcing public safety services or merging with neighboring fire agencies could save between $2.3 million and $8.2 million.
Read More →As a result of dramatically shrinking tax revenues, the public sector is now being forced to make unprecedented cuts across the board. I'm a strong advocate of SWAT being capable and versatile enough to handle a wide variety of assignments. SWAT teams need to stay active as their agencies tactical go-to specialists.
Read More →Voter discontent reflects a growing resentment across America against what are perceived as public sector abuses. Headlines today are filled with stories such as the exorbitant public officials' salaries and pensions in Bell, Calif.
Read More →SWAT is not immune from the adverse effects of the recession. A growing number of tactical units are being merged into regional teams, losing personnel through attrition, and even being suspended and disbanded entirely.
Read More →Technology workers, mortgage-industry refugees, and even those with advanced degrees are arriving at police academies hoping for the stability and benefits of a law enforcement job, especially due to the challenging job market.
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Even with federal stimulus money, many agencies continue to struggle financially. Far fewer new officers are being recruited or hired. Personnel layoffs and demotions are becoming more common. Less equipment and vehicles are being purchased. And more programs are falling into the "nice to have" category, meaning they'll soon be cut out entirely.
Read More →Dallas wants to scale back plans to hire 191 additional police officers this year in an effort to curb costs in a time of slumping revenue. City Manager Mary Suhm told a City Council committee Monday that she thinks the city should hire an additional 120 officers this fiscal year.
Read More →As a growing number of LE agencies struggle to stay afloat, it's logical that SWAT teams will feel the impact. Expect continuing cutbacks in personnel (especially full-time teams), equipment, training, and even callouts. All will be scrutinized for their "necessity." So what can SWAT do about it?
Read More →Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca is considering moving hundred of administrative deputies to patrol duties, cut overtime pay and downsize the Pitchess Detention Center.
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