Budget proposal includes investments in Boston Police talent pipeline

"The City of Boston has the best police force in the country, and through these investments we're able to continue building a pipeline of individuals who are committed to protecting and serving their community," said Mayor Walsh. "Since reinstating the Boston Police Cadet program in 2016, we have taken a step forward in making the police more reflective of our communities. I am proud that in the coming year we will be able to expand this opportunity, while adding an additional class of officers who will work hard to keep Boston safe and make a positive impact in our neighborhoods."

Beginning in the fall of 2017, the Boston Police Department will begin processing applicants for the cadet program, which will add a class of 20 cadets, providing a stable pipeline of young people for future police officer classes.

"The Cadet program is a proven way for the Department to recruit and mentor young people seeking a career with the Boston Police," said Commissioner Evans. "As a former cadet, I recognize and appreciate the value of having this program available for the young people in our city. I thank the Mayor for his commitment to the program and look forward to welcoming the new cadets to the Department in the fall."  

To be eligible, candidates must be between the ages of 18-24, be a current resident of Boston, and have maintained Boston residency for the last five years, be a United States citizen, have a valid Massachusetts driver's license and take and pass the exam. All highly motivated young men and women who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply.

In November of 2016, Mayor Walsh and Police Commissioner Evans swore in the first class of Police Cadets since 2009.  Building on the success of recruiting a diverse class of 42 included 74% cadets of color and 36% female cadets, Mayor Walsh's FY18 budget adds another class, for a total of 60 cadets.

In the last year, new hires at BPD mirrored the city's Black and Hispanic populations, with 24% of hires being Black and 18% of them Hispanic. Also, the new hires were 36% female.

These investments in the talent pipeline are showing results in terms of safety on the streets of Boston. For the first quarter of 2017 violent crime is down 6% and total part one crime is down 11%, keeping Boston one of the safest major cities of its size in the country.  

This year through March 26th, homicides have seen a 45% decrease compared to last year for the same time period. Rape and Attempted Rape is down 19% over last year; total aggravated assaults are down 11%. Total burglary in the city is also down 14%.

Non-fatal shooting incidents are also down this year compared to last year, with 1 fewer incident through March 26th. Arrests in Boston are also continuing to decline with 16% fewer arrests made this year over last year.

The Cadet program is a minimum of a two-year commitment. Cadets rotate throughout the Department in various assignments and shifts, including Headquarters, District Stations, and other specialized units throughout the City. Primary responsibilities include: routine clerical and administrative duties, answering phones, data entry, traffic duty, utilizing Department vehicles, barrier work, and related duties as required.

If selected for appointment, candidates must pass an extensive screening process including: drug testing, a pre-employment physical, an extensive criminal background check, and a rigorous 8 week cadet training program (both academic and physical in nature) at the Boston Police Academy.