News Summary
The Shreveport Police Department has introduced 18 new recruits, marking its largest training class since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Police Chief Wayne Smith announced the new class at the Shreveport Police Regional Training Academy, emphasizing the department’s efforts to replenish its ranks amid staffing challenges. The rigorous training program, lasting approximately 16 weeks, aims to prepare recruits for modern law enforcement duties. Community support for these recruits has been highlighted by officials as they encourage others to join the force.
Shreveport – The Shreveport Police Department has welcomed 18 new recruits as part of the largest training class since the COVID-19 pandemic began. This announcement was made at the Shreveport Police Regional Training Academy on July 25, 2025, by Police Chief Wayne Smith.
This recruit class is a significant step for the department, which has faced challenges in maintaining training numbers during the pandemic. Prior training classes have seen smaller rosters, with numbers ranging from four to 12 recruits. The current cohort represents a renewed effort to bolster the department’s ranks, which, as of now, consist of over 430 officers against a full staffing goal of 581 officers.
From an initial pool of about 200 applications, the department narrowed down to 44 candidates before selecting the final 18. The recruit training is set to last approximately 16 weeks and is currently in its 94th class.
Expectations and Challenges
As the recruits prepare for their training, they have been advised to leave personal items such as phones and weapons at home. This precautionary measure ensures that trainees can focus on the rigorous physical, mental, and ethical components of their training. The training program is designed specifically to meet the demands of modern law enforcement.
Despite this promising start, a significant drop in participation is anticipated as the training progresses. SPD spokesman Chris Bordelon noted that the “shock factor” commonly experienced during initial physical training sessions could lead to a decrease in the number of trainees who complete the program. Historically, only about 60% of recruits who begin the academy end up finishing their training successfully.
Motivations Behind the Recruits
During the introduction phase of the training, each recruit shared their personal reasons for choosing a career in law enforcement. Many expressed a desire to make their communities safer, inspired by their own experiences, and some highlighted motivation stemming from military service and a search for purpose. Their commitment reflects a strong sense of duty and aspiration to serve the public.
Community Support
Mayor Tom Arceneaux has expressed gratitude for the recruits’ commitment, commending them for pursuing this important career path for what he describes as “the right reasons.” His acknowledgment underscores the community’s support for law enforcement and the ongoing recruitment efforts essential for maintaining a well-staffed police department.
As the Shreveport Police Department continues to face the challenge of staffing, it is actively encouraging individuals interested in a career in law enforcement to apply for the next academy class. These ongoing recruitment efforts are vital to ensure the department is equipped to serve and protect the community effectively.
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate
- KSLA
- KTBS
- KTAL News
- The Center Square
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- Google Search: Shreveport Police Department
- Google Scholar: Shreveport Police training
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Google News: Shreveport Police Academy
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
