Finally, I want to briefly address the issue of the number of sworn members in the MPD and whether we need to add more.  There has been a fair amount of discussion on this topic in recent weeks, and I have been variously quoted as saying that either a) we don’t need any additional officers or b) we do need a few hundred more officers. Allow me to try and clarify. As I mentioned earlier, our Department has finally reached our authorized level of 3,800 sworn members, and the FY07 budget will enable us to stay at the level.  That is a significant accomplishment.  Also significant is the progress of our ongoing civilianization program, as well as other efforts to put more officers on the street – for example, by reducing the number of officers on extended sick leave or limited duty and be meeting the staffing goals set by the Mayor and the Council.

 

The members of this Department have accomplished a great deal over the last few years.  They were able to do so, in part because of additional resources, better management and improved information, as well as their own hard work, initiative and professionalism.  To accomplish even more, our Department could benefit from some additional sworn personnel, provided that any expansion plan is designed in a thoughtful and efficient manner.

 

The fact of the matter is that it took us some time to move from fewer than 3,600 officers up to the current level of 3,800.  Given the competition for law enforcement applicants in our region and throughout the country, and given the high standards we have set for becoming a member of the MPDC, it would be unrealistic to budget for, and expect, an instantaneous increase in the number of officers.  I think all of us – the Mayor’s Office, the Council and the MPD – need to sit down and work collectively on trying to determine an optimum number of officers and a plan for getting us there. In the meantime, I remain very confident that our Department can continue to have a positive impact on crime and neighborhood safety with 3,800 sworn members, supported by our team of civilian employees.

 

In closing, let me reaffirm my belief that the FY07 budget, as proposed, funds the most pressing priorities of our Department. The budget supports our current officer staffing level and it helps to ensure that more of those officers are where they need to be – out in our neighborhoods. The budget supports our continuing efforts in both neighborhood crime fighting and homeland security.  In short, the proposed FY07 budget provides the resources – both personnel and support systems – that are needed to reduce crime even further and to promote a greater sense of safety and security in DC neighborhoods.

 

I thank you again for the opportunity to read this statement into the record. My staff and I will be happy to address your questions.