Population Projections Fuel Need for More Police

The Pasadena Police Department is proposing that the city add 65 police officers to its ranks within five to 10 years.

The additional officers would swell the department’s ranks to nearly 300. The proposal is one of a number in a soon-to-be-released strategic plan, said Police Cmdr. Mary Schander.

Schander said more officers and support personnel will be needed to keep pace with a growing population. Pasadena is expected to grow to 140,000 residents over the next decade. City officials say they expect to see more youth and young adults among the population--both of which require more law enforcement services.

The long-term plan for more officers has yet to be considered by the City Council, Schander said.