We share one vision for a thriving city. Vibrant communities. Safe streets. Strong families. The Baltimore Police Department has a role to play in helping this happen. We need officers to Join For Good, and serve their communities with empathy, integrity and courage.
My mother was a Baltimore City Police Officer for 25 years. I got to see her interactions with the community. I knew that it was a rewarding job, and I knew it was something I wanted to do.”
What does it mean to Join For Good? It means being the best answer when Baltimore calls for help. It means doing the work needed to help communities thrive in the city you love.
The Baltimore Police Department is committed to making a difference by using the best practices for community engagement, as well as a greater focus on conflict resolution and creative problem-solving.
Now’s the time to Join For Good.
SHANDELL, BROOKLYN
As a young person living in Baltimore, Shandell can still remember that things used to be different. Neighborhoods felt safer for kids and families. And the relationship between residents and law enforcement wasn’t always so strained. She knows that respect and communication are the foundation of a good officer. “You have to know how to talk to people,” she said. “You have to have good customer service.” Her perspective is the type of change that the city needs.
The opportunities in the Baltimore Police Department are as unique as your passion and talent—from the Cyber Crimes team to the K-9 unit. But we all start in the same place, patrolling our communities. It offers us a powerful chance to connect with neighborhoods and develop relationships with people whose support we depend on to be the best for Baltimore.
Path of an Officer
Top Positions Selected Internally
Senior Leadership
Bria Hightower
Officer
From the Beat
For Bria Hightower, the decision to become a police officer was sparked by tragedy. “In 2008, my father was murdered. The homicide detective who handled my father’s case still works here, and we grew a relationship. Eventually, it made me want to become a homicide detective so I can give families...the same justice I got.” In her three years in the department, she’s learned a lot about herself—and about the community she serves. Integrity is non-negotiable if you’re going to be a good police officer, but you’ve also got to be authentic. “Engage with the community. Show them we’re human beings.”
We’ve revamped our hiring process, allowing us to reach more diverse applicants while removing the barriers that may keep qualified candidates from applying.
Complete and pass the required background investigation, physical examination, and psychological evaluation
OFFICER ELIGIBILITY
The ideal officer candidate:
Is a U.S. citizen, or a permanent legal resident of the United States who: is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Armed Forces; and has submitted an application for United States citizenship that is pending approval.
Possesses a valid driver's license.
Is at least 20 years and 9 months of age upon beginning the Police Academy.
Has a high school diploma or GED.
Can pass a comprehensive background check.
Has a good driving record with no more than five points.
Has not had a DWI/DUI conviction within the last 24 months.
Has been Honorably Discharged if they served in the military.
Has no felony convictions.
Is not currently on parole or probation.
Has had any misdemeanor charges expunged.
Has not illegally used a controlled dangerous substance, narcotic drug or marijuana for any purpose for three or more years; or less than three years, but not less than 12 months, on the condition that the applicant agrees to complete an annual substance abuse test during the two years following the applicant’s date of initial certification.
Can pass a mental and physical examination.
Is, above all, truthful throughout the hiring process.
The BPD is an equal opportunity employer. Employees who have been with the city for at least one year are eligible for 12 weeks of unpaid family and medical leave.
BENEFITS
The BPD offers a competitive package that includes:
A pension after 25 years of service (60% of sworn member’s salary).
Health insurance with prescription, dental and vision.
Six-month paid entry-level Police Academy training.
Pay incentives for associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Equipment at no cost.
An option to participate in the tax-deferred, 457B retirement plan (Deferred Compensation).
A property tax credit of up to $2,500 per year for officers who live in the city.
