Laredo PD Launches Aggressive Recruitment Push

Department aims to maintain staffing levels as 18 officers expected to leave by mid-spring.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Laredo Police Department is planning a more aggressive recruitment campaign as it anticipates losing 18 officers to retirement and other law enforcement agencies by mid-spring. The department says the trend of officers leaving the profession earlier in life for less demanding jobs is a nationwide pattern, and competitive federal salaries and signing bonuses are drawing officers away.

Why it matters

Maintaining adequate police staffing is crucial for public safety in Laredo, a border city that has seen an increased federal law enforcement presence in recent years. The department's recruitment challenges reflect broader workforce trends in policing that many departments across the country are grappling with.

The details

To address the staffing shortage, LPD plans to offer its entrance exam three times a year instead of twice and expand recruitment efforts beyond Webb County. The department also intends to launch a more visible marketing campaign to attract new, qualified candidates.

  • By mid-spring 2026, the Laredo Police Department expects to lose 18 officers to retirement and other agencies.

The players

Miguel Rodriguez

Chief of Police for the Laredo Police Department.

Laredo Police Department

The local law enforcement agency in Laredo, Texas that is launching an aggressive recruitment push.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The trend is now to leave law enforcement careers earlier in life, while young enough to explore less demanding, less stressful, and safer job experiences — professions offering better work-life balance, normal hours, and without late-night shift work.”

— Miguel Rodriguez, Chief of Police

What’s next

The Laredo Police Department plans to offer its entrance exam three times a year instead of twice and expand recruitment efforts beyond Webb County to attend job fairs and other career events.

The takeaway

Laredo's police staffing challenges reflect broader workforce trends in law enforcement, as officers increasingly seek out less demanding jobs with better work-life balance. To maintain adequate public safety, the department is taking proactive steps to recruit new officers through expanded testing and marketing campaigns.