Shortage of police applicants an issue | News, Sports, Jobs - The Steubenville Herald-Star

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Shortage of police applicants an issue | News, Sports, Jobs - The Steubenville Herald-Star Posted: 23 Aug 2019 11:14 PM PDT Just 10 people have signed up to take the examination for entry-level jobs with the Steubenville Police Department. This morning's written test at Eastern Gateway Community College is just the first step in the process of becoming a new officer. Those who receive passing scores will face an agility test at 1 p.m., and those who pass both of those challenges will move forward to the interview process. After that, they will have to pass a background check, polygraph, drug and alcohol screening and a psychological test. "We're short of people, we're short of patrolmen," Civil Service Commission President Dolores Wiggins noted. Why is that? One reason may be the economy. Many potential applicants may seek higher-paying jobs with less stress. The shortage of applicants for law enforcement jobs is not unique to our area — cities big and small in all parts of the country report they are having a difficult time filling open spots. And that leaves police departments in a tough spot. In Steubenville, for example, police Chief Bill McCafferty has said his department likely will have one retirement before the end of the year. He added that his department has at least four officers who could retire at any time. One wonders what effect the drumbeat of condemnations of those in law enforcement has. Why would anyone want to enter a profession so many people seem to despise? Police officers and sheriff's deputies are far more likely to be recognized for acts of community service — and sometimes heroism — than for misbehavior. Many local residents notice that, we believe. Holding the tiny minority of bad cops accountable is vital. But, as lagging interest in the profession, not just in Steubenville but also in many other communities, makes clear, standing behind the good ones is important, too. Good men and women should not be afraid to seek law enforcement jobs.

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