Mayor Whitmire Announces Raise and Incentives for Houston Police Cadets, Strategy Will Increase Recruiting for New Officers

Mayor Whitmire Announces Raise and Incentives for Houston Police Cadets, Strategy Will Increase Recruiting for New Officers

September 9, 2024 -- Today, Mayor John Whitmire reaffirmed his commitment to public safety and the Houston Police Department by announcing a $10,000 raise for police cadets and additional incentives to recruit and retain new officers.

The mayor made the surprise announcement while visiting with members of Cadet Class #267, accompanied by Police Chief J. Noe Diaz. The pay increase will have a far-reaching and significant impact on HPD's ability to recruit and retain additional police officers.

Effective immediately

• HPD cadets will get a base salary jump from $42,000 to $52,000.
• HPD cadets will receive a $5,000 one-time incentive for completing the academy and TCOLE Certification
• Total cadet compensation increases to $57,000 in the first year

Upon completion of the probationary period, the officer's salary will increase to $62,574.

"This is an investment in the men and women of our police department who put their lives on the line daily to keep our community safe," said Mayor Whitmire. "Each one of you has committed to public service. The pay increase is a start in the right direction to let men and women across this state, this nation, and this great city know that we want you to become a Houston police officer. I've been with police officers on the best days and on the worst days, but always, it's a dedicated group of individuals."

The mayor has attended several police cadet graduations, but today was the first time he addressed cadets during their training.

There are currently 46 cadets in class #267 who will graduate in March 2026.

The FY 2025 budget includes funding for six police cadet classes.

While speaking with the cadets Monday afternoon, Mayor Whitmire encouraged them to help HPD recruit new officers and always to prioritize the community.

"I hope you recommend somebody else to join this fine organization because the better days are in front of us, and someday, I hope one of you will aspire to be a commander or a chief," said Mayor Whitmire. "The model we want in Houston is law enforcement that protects the public, protects yourself, and your family. And I'll even go a step further. I've wanted to say this to a group of officers, certainly cadets. It's appropriate when you pull somebody over, I believe it's your duty to treat that person like a family member."

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