DeKalb GA News

Less than two months into her term, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has implemented significant changes to enhance public safety by investing in the salaries of police officers. Starting March 1, 2025, sworn officers and recruits will see their pay increase as part of an effort to improve retention and attract qualified candidates to the DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD).

The new salary structure includes a base salary for police recruits set at $61,000, which increases to $64,050 with a degree. Police officers will earn a base salary of $62,525 or $65,651 if they hold a degree. Senior police officers' salaries are now $70,000 or $73,500 with a degree. Additionally, master police officers and other higher-ranking positions will receive a 7.1% salary increase.

“This pay increase is not just about numbers—it’s about valuing the men and women who put their lives on the line every day for DeKalb County," stated CEO Cochran-Johnson. She emphasized that investing in public safety contributes positively to economic development and community well-being.

The initiative also includes additional measures such as a $500 monthly housing allowance for officers, medical coverage enhancements, collaboration with local schools on non-violence initiatives, establishing the DeKalb Police Foundation, and planning for a real-time crime technology center.

A recruitment event is scheduled for March 8 at the DeKalb South Police Precinct in Decatur. The event aims to attract new recruits by offering insights into available positions within DKPD and providing opportunities to meet department leadership.

“This is just the beginning,” added Cochran-Johnson regarding her administration's efforts toward improving public safety in DeKalb County.

For further details on pay adjustments or recruitment opportunities, interested parties can visit the official website of DeKalb County PD or contact Detective Lesa Laird via email or phone.