Challenges in Law Enforcement Recruitment and Retention in Michigan

Local leaders in Michigan are increasingly alarmed about the challenges of hiring and retaining law enforcement officers, as highlighted in the latest Michigan Public Policy Survey conducted by the University of Michigan’s Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy (CLOSUP). Published on September 17, 2024, the survey reveals a significant rise in concerns over the past decade, with nearly three-quarters (72%) of local governments reporting difficulties in recruiting qualified personnel, a stark increase from just 22% in 2015. Furthermore, 39% of these jurisdictions indicate they face significant recruitment issues, while 48% struggle to retain current officers.