‘Sick of Houston?’: How Dallas police are trying to recruit officers in Houston area

HOUSTON – From the foodery, nightlife, housing and community -- there has always a comparison on which city is better, Houston or Dallas? It looks like law enforcement has now joined the debate in its latest pitch.

The Dallas Police Department has made it loud that working for them is more appealing than working in the Houston area.

The police department touted on social media, stating, “Sick of Houston? Ready for something bigger, better, and bolder? Dallas is calling. Step up and make the move as a lateral officer to a city with power, pride, and a skyline that proves it. Don’t wait—apply now!”

They specifically targeted Houston area officers and even opened a Houston testing event in our city. (How bold) 😱

The three-day event will be held on June 23, 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Embassy Suites The Woodlands, 1855 Hughes Landing Blvd.

Here’s what Dallas Police Department is offering:

• Lateral officer paid academy up to: $91,007
• All uniforms and equipment provided
• Shortened lateral academy
• Shift differential pay 3.5% - 6.5%
• Off duty job opportunities
• 8-hour and 10-hour shifts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Up to $3,000 relocation reimbursement

As of recently, the Houston Police Department’s starting salary will go up to $81,600 annually beginning July 1, positioning the department as the highest-paying law enforcement agency in the region.

READ: Houston Police Department’s new starting salary-- how does it compare?

The landmark contract between the Houston Police Officers’ Union and the City guarantees annual raises for officers during their first five years of service, marking a significant shift in the department’s recruitment strategy.

READ: Houston City Council unanimously approves new HPD contract to raise pay, recruit officers

The compensation package represents Houston’s commitment to attracting and retaining top law enforcement talent.

The Houston Police Department has also eliminated a policy that required officers to initiate at least one traffic stop per day.

READ: HPD ends quota requiring officers to initiate at least 1 traffic stop per day

The Houston City Council passed an ordinance Wednesday to eliminate traffic stop quotas, which Council Member Edward Pollard called “a win for the community.”