Full Notification

Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki and Chief of Police Wilfredo Campos said today they have begun the hiring process for future members of the Wilmington Police Department (WPD). The WPD’s 104^th Wilmington Police Academy will begin in February, but those individuals interested in a career in law enforcement – and public service – can apply to join the police department beginning today. The application process will close on October 11.
 
The starting salary for selected applicants is $65,000, which increases each year to reach $87,929 in year 5. There is no residency requirement for new police officers.
 
To learn more about becoming a Wilmington police officer, contact Sgt. Aaron Metzner at (302) 576-3177 or email him at [email protected]. You can also visit the WPD recruitment webpage at www.WilmingtonDE.gov/PoliceAcademy. The initial screening process will include a written exam, a physical ability test, and interview panels that will include a Chief’s interview.
 
“Our police officers work hard each day to protect and serve Delaware’s largest city, and I could not be more proud of the results of our efforts – including sustained reductions in crime, enhanced relationships with the community, and a wide range of partnerships and outreach initiatives to support each of our residents,” said Chief Campos. “We invite you to join our ranks, and to help us continue to make our city safer.”
 
The WPD has an authorized strength of 305 officers, but the current staffing level has fallen below 95% of this number due to attrition, which is the threshold that enables the city to start a new academy class. The Administration has notified City Council of the need for a new academy and will present more information at the next Public Safety Committee meeting. The total number of recruits that will be accepted into the 104th Wilmington Police Academy will be determined closer to the start date of the academy.
 
“First responders are special people who are cut from a different cloth,” said Mayor Purzycki. “And those are the people we are looking for in Wilmington. Women and men who want to help make our City safer and a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Police officers, working with a variety of community partners, play a vital role in improving the quality of life for the people they serve. I look forward to welcoming this next class to a rewarding lifetime of public service.”
 
Members of the WPD Human Resources Division and Recruitment Team work year-round to recruit future police officers. Members regularly attend career fairs and other programs at high schools, colleges – including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) – and community centers to promote the department and share information about a career in law enforcement. The recruitment team will also be contacting individuals who previously expressed an interest in becoming a Wilmington police officer. Recruiters also work with City Council members, the faith community and other community-based organizations and groups to promote the application process.
 
“Members of the Wilmington Police Department receive comprehensive training and have access to continuing opportunities for professional development and growth, including the chance to join a number of specialized units and teams,” said Chief Campos. “I invite anyone interested in a career in law enforcement to consider applying, and hope you will be part of our team.”