Abstract
The current problem of finding qualified candidates for law enforcement agencies is quickly becoming a nationwide crisis. This problem is exacerbated by retention issues and a dramatic rise in violent crime. I selected this problem since I have seen a dramatic reduction in police candidates over the past ten years in my role as a police administrator. This study uses both a qualitative review of literature and a quantitative anonymous survey of New Hampshire police professionals to look for solutions. The results indicated numerous causes for this problem; the national discussion and protests of police, the decline of traditional 'pipelines' of recruits, and the likelihood of members of the millennial generation to avoid careers in public service. This paper offers potential solutions for agencies seeking to increase the number of qualified applicants, including the creation of specialized recruitment teams, simplifying the recruitment process, changing standards, and confronting misinformation.
