Jefferson City Police looking for more officers

The Jefferson City Police Department is looking to fill several positions that have been open since last year.

Nine police officers retired last year, creating a gap. With not enough candidates applying, the department heads are looking for more applicants.

The city police board met Monday to discuss the hiring process as they look to hire 7 new police officers and two communications officers.

So far,61 people have applied to the 7open officerpositions. Through the process, cadidates have been narroweed down to ten candidates as of right now.

“Last year we had the savings and retirement program and a lot of people took advantage of that, which really contributed to our vacancies,” said Lt. Jeff Stiefermann of JCPD.

The requirements include a written test, physical fitness, oral boards, a polygraph, background check, and interview.

If the applicant doesn’t have a Missouri license, they’ll have to go through the academy, which the city pays for.

Currently, the department operates with about 6 to 7 officers per shift at a time. However, capacity allows for up to 9.

“This is a great community and a great place to work, the city provides a lot of benefits to officers and really, we’re a small enough department where everybody knows each other, and everybody looks out for each other. We’re like a family. I know that sounds a little cliche but it’s really true here,” said Stiefermann.

Applicants can apply on the city’s website.