Shreveport Police Department Boosts Recruitment Amid Officer Shortage

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

News Summary

The Shreveport Police Department is launching a recruitment campaign to address a critical officer shortage. Chief Wayne Smith highlights the qualifications for interested community members, and emphasizes the intense training that recruits will undergo. With a focus on physical, mental, and tactical skills, the department aims to prepare new officers for their duties while fostering camaraderie among recruits. Additionally, the community is urged to assist with an ongoing investigation into a former bookkeeper charged with theft, showcasing the department’s commitment to safety and integrity.

Shreveport’s Police Department Steps Up Recruitment Efforts Amid Officer Shortage

In a proactive move, the Shreveport Police Department is kicking off a recruitment campaign as they face a significant shortage of officers. The department is appealing to community members who are interested in joining the force and making a real difference in their neighborhoods.

The upcoming police academy is designed to train individuals who aspire to become officers. Chief of Police Wayne Smith has outlined the qualifications needed to apply, encouraging interested parties to take the leap. For those who decide to enroll, the recruiting process leads to a 15-week training program that is anything but easy.

Intense Training Awaits Recruits

Recruits can expect a demanding schedule filled with both physical and mental challenges. Training encompasses a variety of crucial areas, including physical fitness, firearms training, and defensive tactics. Weekly sessions are devoted to honing these skills, ensuring that each recruit is well-prepared for real-world situations.

One recruit, Josh Kennemer, shared that the experience has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding. He describes it as a life-changing opportunity and emphasizes the personal growth that comes with training alongside peers who share the same goal of serving the community.

The training also includes a unique component where recruits undergo taser exposure. This aspect aims to prepare them for potential interactions they might face on the streets, providing a safe environment to experience what it feels like without the stakes being too high.

Bonds Formed in Training

Sgt. Bryan Boughton, an academy instructor, highlighted that throughout the rigorous program, recruits develop strong friendships that can last a lifetime. The shared experience of navigating through challenging scenarios helps to build camaraderie and trust within the group.

As the recruits progress through their training, the skills they acquire become invaluable. Once the training academy concludes, these newly minted officers will go on to incorporate their experienced knowledge into their everyday law enforcement duties, determined to keep Shreveport safe.

A Different Kind of Investigation: Former Bookkeeper Arrested for Theft

White Collar Crime unit.

The investigation was launched after Evangel Christian Academy reported unusual financial discrepancies from April 2023 to June 2024. Stevens, who was responsible for handling cash payments for the school, faced scrutiny after detectives discovered a notable amount of missing cash that had been traced directly to her personal bank account.

Financial Fallout

The total loss incurred by Evangel Christian Academy due to the alleged misappropriation of funds amounts to a staggering $85,700.25. As the investigation continues, authorities are doing their best to piece together the details of this troubling case.

Shreveport police are reaching out to the community, urging anyone with additional information related to Stevens’ activities to come forward either by contacting the police department or calling Crime Stoppers.

As the police department tackles both recruitment and this unexpected financial crime, the community is encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing situations. Together, they can support the efforts to keep Shreveport safe and secure.