By Pablo Perez OMAHA, Neb.- After years of struggling with officer shortages, the Omaha Police Department (OPD) is finally seeing new momentum in its recruiting efforts. Applications have nearly tripled in the past year, marking a hopeful shift for a department that’s been operating below full strength.
At one point earlier this year, OPD was short by more than 100 officers, according to union reports falling to around 115 vacancies out of the department’s authorized strength of 906.
. The shortage put pressure on existing staff and raised concerns about response times and officer burnout.
Yet, in 2025, OPD leaders announced a major turnaround. Thanks to year-round applications and a new dedicated recruiting unit, applications soared from roughly 600 last year to nearly 1,500 this year
For Logan Wood, a local applicant, those numbers are more than statistics — they represent opportunity.
“I always knew I wanted to do something with purpose That can help others.” Wood said.
Wood, like many new applicants, is still waiting to hear back after completing written exams and background checks. But despite the long process, he remains motivated — spending his time preparing both mentally and physically for what could be the start of a career in public service.
The city’s 2026 budget is also playing a role in attracting recruits. Omaha’s police pay will rise by about five percent, putting it above the average for agencies across the state. City leaders hope that competitive pay, combined with steady recruitment, will bring OPD closer to full staffing in the coming year.
Even so, challenges remain. Police officials say retaining officers is just as important as recruiting new ones — and the department continues to look for ways to support its workforce while strengthening community trust.
For applicants like Wood, the mission goes beyond pay or position.
“I know I can and will be a great police officer” he said.
As Omaha looks to rebuild its ranks, a new generation of recruits may be ready to step up. Driven not just by opportunity, but by purpose.
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