NCJ Number
111015
Date Published
1987
Length
156 pages
Annotation
Projections of future trends suggest that law enforcement in the 21st century will face manpower problems resulting from the declining entry-level worker population and dwindling public revenues resulting from a reduced tax base and loss of Federal revenue sharing.
Abstract
To examine the potential of using retired peace officers as a volunteer supplement to sworn officer strength, a survey was conducted of members of three retired peace officer associations. Responses of 98 former officers indicated that a majority were willing to volunteer in a variety of capacities, police administrators would welcome their return, and labor opposition could probably be overcome through negotiation. Legal implications of such a program are examined, including civil liability, workmen's compensation, and social security eligibility; strategies for resolving problems are suggested. While no precedent programs were found in a nationwide search, three programs using retired officers were identified in Illinois and California. A detailed transition plan is presented for reintroducing retired police volunteers into law enforcement agencies. The plan covers creation of policies, goals, and objectives, establishing a budget process; job descriptions; personnel recruitment, selection, orientation, and training; and program evaluation. Figures, 62 footnotes, 64 references, and appendixes.