The number of NYPD detectives has dipped below 5,000 for the first time since the pandemic. Union officials warn that up to 1,600 more could retire by year-end, compounding staffing challenges. The current count stands at 4,948, significantly below the post-9/11 peak of around 7,000. As a result, detectives' caseloads have dramatically increased, averaging 500-600 cases annually, straining resources and slowing case clearances. Union leaders highlight detrimental factors including difficult recruitment, anti-cop legislation, and rising overtime that incentivizes early retirement. These trends contribute to concerns over public safety and unresolved crime.
As a result of the dwindling numbers, detectives have seen caseloads swell from an average of 250 per year in 2000 to 500-600 cases or more, the union said.
Fewer detectives means fewer terrorism experts, fewer homicide investigators and more fugitives on the street," Detectives' Endowment Association President Scott Munro said.
The average detective makes a base pay of about $130,000 per year.
Munro also attributed the attrition to anti-cop legislation pushed by left-leaning city and state pols that has made the job even more challenging.
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