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Tucker Residents Mull Creating City Police Force
Feasibility study estimates $10.7M cost, but DeKalb County disputes lower figure
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Residents and business owners in Tucker, Georgia, are considering whether the city needs its own police department, separate from the current DeKalb County Police Department coverage. A feasibility study estimated a new Tucker police force would cost around $10.7 million, but DeKalb County disputes this lower figure, putting the cost at $47.6 million.
Why it matters
Issues like 911 wait times and increased crime in Tucker's business districts have led to growing discussions about the city establishing its own dedicated police force, rather than relying solely on the DeKalb County Police Department. The debate centers on whether Tucker would benefit from more localized law enforcement resources and response.
The details
The feasibility study through the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police estimated a new police department in Tucker would cover salaries and benefits for 53 sworn officers, as well as additional civilian staff, plus equipment, vehicles, report management and dispatch technologies. However, DeKalb County claims the $10.7 million figure is too low, and that the actual cost would be $47.6 million, accounting for retirement, pension costs and regular specialized training.
- The feasibility study was conducted recently.
The players
Tucker
A city in Georgia that is currently served by the DeKalb County Police Department, but is considering establishing its own police force.
DeKalb County Police Department
The current law enforcement agency providing coverage for the city of Tucker, but which Tucker leaders say does not provide enough dedicated resources.
Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
The organization that conducted the feasibility study estimating the cost of a new police department for Tucker.
DeKalb County
The county that currently provides policing services to Tucker, and disputes the lower cost estimate for a Tucker police force.
What’s next
Tucker city leaders will review the feasibility study and DeKalb County's cost estimate as they continue to weigh the decision of whether to establish their own police department.
The takeaway
The debate in Tucker highlights the challenges cities can face in balancing the need for more localized law enforcement resources against the costs of establishing a new municipal police force, especially when there are disagreements over the projected budget.
