Fall River city councilors Tuesday night began a discussion with Police Chief Paul Gauvin and leaders of the Fall River Patrolmen’s Association about the ever-shrinking ranks of officers within the department and ways to recruit new officers and retain those currently on duty.
Patrolmen Association Vice President Edmund Desmarais says in 2022, the department has seen a marked decline in the number of officers that patrol the city.
Chief Gauvin says there are currently 25 uniform division openings within the department. He says the problem is simple, there has been an increased level of disinterest from those looking to serve as police officers.
Police recruitment and retention is a nationwide problem. Patrolmen’s Association President Jonathan Ferreira says Fall River should follow the lead of other communities in incentivizing individuals to become officers and keeping them on the job.
The patrolmen’s association and the city have been engaged in contract negotiations since earlier this year.
Video courtesy Fall River Government Television
2023-How about a change to Fall River Patrol Officer’s Association. Patrolmen is outdated at this point. Blessings and thanks to all officers who have a must difficult job every single day!!!!