News release from the City of Fort Wayne:
Mayor Henry and FWPD announce plan to add 26 officers in 2017
Application process now open
(February 2, 2016) – Mayor Tom Henry and Police Chief Garry Hamilton today announced the Fort Wayne Police Department’s hiring initiative to add 26 new police officers in 2017.
The application process opened today and is available at www.fwpd.org. The application deadline is April 1.
Written and fitness exams are anticipated to occur in the May-June 2016 timeframe. The scheduled starting date for the 62nd Recruit Class of the Fort Wayne Police Department is January 2017, with graduation scheduled for summer 2017. All new officers will experience six months of supervised assistance before being released to solo patrol.
“Public safety continues to be a top priority as we work together to protect residents, neighborhoods, and businesses,” said Mayor Henry. “I’m encouraged we’re in position to add more officers. This sends a positive message that we care and are dedicated to making a meaningful difference.”
“This is an important next step in our commitment to provide excellent public safety services to the community,” said Chief Hamilton. “It’s critical that we continue to have open communication with residents and trust one another as we partner to ensure all of us are as safe as possible.”
The Fort Wayne Police Department currently has 445 officers. In 2014, the department added 15 officers, and in 2015, 21 new officers began service with the City.