CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Division of Police has welcomed a new police academy class featuring 52 recruits, which is larger than the previous four classes combined.
Of the 52 recruits, officials say that 10 are between the ages of 40 and 54. Those 10 individuals would not have been eligible if it wasn't for Mayor Bibb's legislation that amended a Sept. 2012 ordinance that capped the age at 40.
“Last July I doubled down on my commitment to public safety by launching RISE – an initiative to raise investments in safety for our residents, officers, and the entire community,” said Mayor Justin Bibb. “Initiatives only matter to the extent they generate tangible successes. Clevelanders deserve results and this large academy class is a direct product of my Administration’s cumulative efforts over the last several months. I’m proud of what we have accomplished so far, but there is a lot more work to be done. We will continue working day and night to keep our city safe.”
The class comes as the latest product of Mayor Bibb's RISE Initiative, which was created to "invest in police and public safety, leveraging regional partnerships, promoting aggressive enforcement and increased police visibility, and increasing the use of technology to help tackle crime."
Since launching RISE, Mayor Bibb's administration has done the following for law enforcement:
- Hosted the City’s first-ever Public Safety Summit announcing a 50% pay increase, $5,000 sign-on bonuses, fast-tracked promotions and other marked improvements for recruits
- Increased pay up to 25% for current officers
- Raised the maximum age to become a police officer
- Hosted an expedited hiring event to streamline the application process.
“We're excited to welcome the Cleveland Division of Police 155th Academy class, showcasing our unwavering dedication to enhancing public safety through robust recruitment endeavors. I am grateful for the support of Mayor Bibb, his administration, Interim Safety Director Drummond, and the hard work of our members,” said Chief Dorthy Todd. “The Mayor’s RISE Initiative and the recent adjustment to the maximum age for recruits have enabled us to welcome a more diverse group of recruits. This class's enrollment numbers signal a promising resurgence in interest in the career of Law Enforcement and a commitment to driving positive change in our city.”