State Rep. Jared Solomon introduces bill to address staff shortages in Philadelphia Police Department

HARRISBURG, June 8 -- State Rep. Jared Solomon, D-Phila., introduced legislation that would seek to address the lack of Philadelphia Police Department officers.

In 2015, the Philadelphia Police Department had 6,600 sworn officers and 800 civilian personnel, but this year the department is operating with just 5,900 sworn officers and 600 civilian personnel, Solomon said.

“Seniors are scared about being in their homes, parents do not feel comfortable having their kids walk to school, and neighbors are frightened to gather at our recreation centers. We must do better, and this is a step in the right direction,” Solomon said. 

This legislation would create the Retired Police Officer Program, which would allow retired officers to return to work. The requirements would include that the retired officers have exemplary records and be mandated to take a training course. 

“The reality is we need to be combating gun violence and address community safety on a local level and that starts with protecting our community,” Solomon said.