For the first time in years, the Clarkston Police Department has reached full staffing, a milestone that promises to enhance public safety, reduce response times, and strengthen community engagement. With 21 sworn officers now serving the city, the department is poised to operate at full strength, ensuring the highest level of service and protection for Clarkston residents.
“This is a tremendous achievement for our department and our community,” said Assistant Chief Xavier Todd. “Being fully staffed means we have the personnel necessary to provide efficient and proactive policing while allowing our officers to focus on building stronger relationships with residents.”
The journey to full staffing was not without its challenges. In mid-2023, the department faced a significant officer shortage, leading to increased workloads and longer response times. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, city leadership, including the Mayor and Council, approved a salary increase from $46,000 to $60,000 to remain competitive with surrounding agencies.
Police Chief Christine Hudson emphasized the importance of this decision in attracting new talent. “The salary adjustment was a game-changer. It allowed us to recruit highly qualified officers who may have otherwise chosen larger departments. We also enhanced our recruitment efforts through social media, job fairs, and community outreach, which made a significant impact on getting results.”
With a full complement of officers, the department can prioritize focus on proactive crime prevention, community engagement, and specialized training.
Detective Greg Feltman of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) highlighted the profound impact of having the necessary resources to support crime victims and their families.
“Having a fully staffed department means we’re not just reacting to crime; we’re preventing it. It means victims and their families get the time, attention, and support they deserve,” Feltman said. “Every person who comes to us in their moment of crisis should know that we have the resources and the heart to stand by them and fight for justice.”
Maintaining full staffing remains a top priority for the department. Looking ahead to 2025, the department plans to invest in advanced training opportunities and continue offering competitive compensation to retain its officers.
“We’re not stopping here,” Todd added. “We’re committed to staying competitive, keeping our officers well-trained, and ensuring Clarkston remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
With a fully staffed force and a clear vision for the future, the Clarkston Police Department is ready to serve, protect, and build stronger connections with the community. Residents can expect to see officers engaging more with the public, focusing on crime prevention, and working diligently to keep Clarkston safe.