The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department inched closer to its 2019 police officer staffing goal following recent ceremonies.
There was a packed house for the graduation of the IMPD 19th Recruit Class last week. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett says the class set a record.
"At a total number of 74," says Hogsett, "you are the largest IMPD class ever."
Hogsett announced a goal to have 1,743 officers on the force this year. With the new graduates and another class just sworn in, the current count is just 20 shy.
Outgoing IMPD Chief Brian Roach says all new officers will focus on beat policing.
"Law enforcement is a team sport," says Roach. "We have a great team but we need everyone else."
Hogesett says community relationships are a top priority.
"As neighborhood beat policing has taken effect we've seen officers develop powerful relationships with families who live in the beats they serve," says Hogsett.
IMPD's newest recruit class has the highest percentage of female officers ever.
