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Thursday, March 28, 2024

IMPD seeking qualified, diverse workforce

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Though African-Americans make up 28 percent of the city’s population, only 14 percent of the city’s police force is Black. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is currently in the process of recruiting new officers, and they hope recent efforts will assist in diversifying the police force.

“We are using bus ads, billboards, social media sites, radio, community events and attending career fairs, including those at Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Sgt. Ida Williams with the IMPD. “Having a diverse police department definitely reflects more positively within the community, not to mention that it helps us to be more sensitive and effective in dealing with issues involving minority communities.”

Over the past few years, city leaders have promised to diversify the police force in Indianapolis. Last summer, IMPD had one of the most diverse recruit classes in its history, with minorities making up 40 percent of the class. IMPD is eager to build on their efforts this year and recruit a diverse and competent police force.

“We are looking for people who are community oriented and who want to serve something bigger than themselves. We are looking for individuals who are not looking for just a job, because this is not just a job,” said Williams.

Potential officers must hold a high school diploma or GED, be between 21 and 36 years of age by date of appointment, and have a clean record with no felonies or misdemeanors. After a recruit applies online, they will be required to complete a written exam, oral interviews, physical ability tests and background screenings. The process typically takes nine months from the time an applicant takes a written exam and is sworn into the police academy.

Williams hopes minorities will apply, because personal experience has shown her that having a diverse police force helps people of color feel more comfortable with and connected to the police force. 

“It’s no secret that when we have a diverse workforce it helps us better address the community that we serve. It helps us to be well-rounded in our everyday police work. For me, as a Black female, when I show up on the scene of anything and there are other folks that look like me, I get a positive reaction because people want to see us in the community. Whether I’m working Black Expo or downtown New Year’s Eve, I think when folks see people who look like them it kind of makes everybody more comfortable.” 

The deadline to apply for the April written test is March 19. If you do not have access to a computer, you may complete an online application at the City-County Building, Room T1541, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call the recruiting office at (317) 327-IMPD or visit joinimpd.indy.gov.

 

Join IMPD

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department in Indianapolis is currently recruiting for Sworn Police Officers. Apply at joinimpd.indy.gov before March 19. Call (317) 327-IMPD for more information.

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