LANCASTER, Pa. — Lancaster Police jumped, climbed, and crawled through their brand-new agility course. The course is part of a new effort to fill critical roles within the police department.
“We’re just trying to think outside of the box in different ways to help encourage people to join our team," said Sgt. Todd Grager.
According to the Lancaster City Police, there are 34 vacant positions throughout the department. The staffing shortage is putting a strain on police officers, according to Sgt. Grager.
“Our officers are having to work overtime on a pretty regular basis to try and fulfill minimum manpower staffing issues," he said.
“We are looking to hire more," said Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace. "We continue to have officers retiring and we need to fill those positions.”
Sorace said the city is constantly evaluating staffing levels, based on call volume and crime rates. She believes the new training course will encourage more people to consider becoming police officers.
“This is really giving candidates a taste of what everyday police work can be like in Lancaster," said Mayor Sorace.
By running applicants through practical drills—Lancaster Police hope to bring more members into their ranks.
“With 34 vacant positions, it’s essentially your job to lose," said Sgt. Grager. "We just encourage people who are honest and willing to carry themselves with integrity to apply.”
Anyone who is interested in applying for a position with the Lancaster City Police can go to their website.