Chicago Welcomes 248 New Police Officers Amid Staffing Shortages

The new recruits join a department still facing a shortage of around 1,000 officers.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:20am

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A total of 248 new police officers have graduated and joined the Chicago Police Department, including 48 new detectives, 75 sergeants, 25 lieutenants, and 4 captains. However, the department is still facing a shortage of around 1,000 officers despite these new hires.

Why it matters

Chicago's police staffing levels have been declining for years, leaving gaps in public safety that the city is working to address. These new hires, while a positive step, do not fully close the staffing shortage the department is facing.

The details

The new officers completed six months of training in law, report writing, stop and investigation procedures, firearms, control tactics, and physical fitness. They are now working as probationary officers, responding to calls and training with experienced officers. City leaders say hiring will continue as they work to fill the remaining vacancies.

  • The new officers graduated and began work on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Chicago's police department has lost more than 1,800 officers since 2019.

The players

Larry Snelling

Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.

Brandon Johnson

Mayor of Chicago.

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What they’re saying

“Those who choose this profession are selfless individuals who run toward danger while others run away. The recruit graduates and promotees we are celebrating today are working on behalf of all Chicagoans to safeguard every community and bring justice to victims of crime.”

— Larry Snelling, Superintendent, Chicago Police Department

“Every Chicagoan who steps up to serve our city strengthens our communities. My administration is committed to ensuring our officers have the tools and support they need to advance our work of building safe communities across our city.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor of Chicago

What’s next

City leaders say hiring will continue as they work to fill the remaining 1,000 officer vacancies in the Chicago Police Department.

The takeaway

While the addition of 248 new officers is a positive step, Chicago's police department is still facing a significant staffing shortage of around 1,000 officers. Filling these vacancies will be crucial for the city to maintain public safety and support its communities.