The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is currently facing a staffing crisis, with officer numbers dropping to the lowest levels since 1958. As of June 3, 2024, the SPD has lost a total of 38 officers, including recruits, and the city projects that it will lose a total of 94 officers by the end of the year. In comparison, the department only expects to hire or rehire 34 officers during the same period. This leaves the SPD with a total of 848 deployable officers, a significant decrease from the 918 officers in 1958. The staffing shortage has led to concerns about public safety and an increase in private security hires by businesses due to the lack of police presence. [c8208eae]
The Seattle Police Department's staffing crisis comes at a time when crime rates in the city are also a major concern. There has been a surge in juvenile crime as well as property crimes such as break-ins, theft, and vandalism. The city has also been grappling with a high number of homicides, although the number is lower than the previous year. The increase in crime and the lack of police officers have had a significant impact on the community, leading to the closure of several businesses and the sale of downtown commercial real estate at reduced prices. The mayor's office has been making efforts to recruit new officers, including targeting DACA recipients, but these efforts have not been successful so far. The city is actively working to address the staffing crisis and improve public safety. [c8208eae]