LCPD is advertising hiring incentives, possible relocation assistance and higher starting pay for experienced officers

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Las Cruces Police Department is offering up to $35,000 in recruitment and retention incentives to attract experienced law enforcement officers willing to laterally transfer to the department.

The incentives are available to commissioned officers in good standing with their current agencies, including officers certified in New Mexico and those with at least two years of certified law enforcement experience from departments outside the state. All applicants must pass a background investigation.

According to the department, the incentive package includes $10,000 at hire, $10,000 after completing field training and $10,000 after completing one year of probation. An additional $5,000 relocation assistance incentive is available for officers who qualify.

LCPD also offers higher starting pay for lateral transfers based on years of experience. Hourly pay ranges from $30.27 for officers with two years of experience to $36.33 for officers with 11 years of service.

Lateral transfer hourly pay scale:

• 2 years: $30.27
• 3 years: $31.68
• 5 years: $34.15
• 8 years: $34.70
• 11 years: $36.33

The recruitment push comes as police departments across New Mexico and the region compete for experienced officers, with many agencies offering hiring bonuses, incentive pay or relocation assistance to address staffing shortages and retirements.

Commissioned officers interested in applying can visit CLCPD.com and select the “Lateral Entry” link for information.