Date of Award
5-2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Business Admin
Department
Human Resource Management
First Advisor
Dr. Maria T. Poindexter
Second Advisor
Patricia Strait
Third Advisor
James L. Narduzzi
Abstract
The problem addressed in this study is the challenge to police agencies to
recruit and retain police officers. The Prince William County Police Department
(PWCPD) has experienced the challenges of filling sworn positions as we
continue to sustain our fully authorized staffing levels. This is a phenomenon
many agencies across the nation are experiencing. A survey was used to identify
the reasons for selecting the PWCPD for employment and what can be done to
retain employees to ensure a positive return-on-investment. A multi-step process
was followed in creating, distributing and analyzing the survey. Results lead to
the following conclusions: knowing your target market and the strengths of the
organization; having a clear mission statement and organizational objectives
which can be identified by all members in the agency; creating a pay structure that
is effective in minimizing the number of officers who leave for other agencies.
Recommended Citation
Kearns, Scott A., "Recruitment and retention challenges for law enforcement agencies : identifying the reasons for high turnover rates of new recruits" (2007). Master's Theses. 1140.
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/masters-theses/1140