What's Happening in Cincinnati, OH…

Cincinnati is reportedly short of police officers, and the problem is getting worse.

According to a recent statement, John Cranley, Cincinnati's mayor, said the city needs more law enforcement officers. The city council agreed with him and voted to start a new recruit class.

However, it was reported that there is not enough time to get a class set up for September, so it appears that the next one will begin next year on January 3rd. Most classes are scheduled for February, but by moving it up a month, there's enough time for a second session to take place later next year.

Officers are leaving the force due to varying factors, including retirement and simple attrition. When the force was fully manned, no recruit classes were needed. In fact, none were held for six years, from 2008 to 2014. Now, there is growing support for scheduling two classes per year for the next several years.

Retirements have continued even in the face of the falling numbers of personnel. Even with the latest recruiting efforts, as well as lateral hires, the department is 118 officers short of the number it should have. The city hopes to add 55 new officers to the force early in 2016.

City officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents, explaining the shortage of police and asking qualified people to consider applying for the next recruitment session.