The Finger Lakes Law Enforcement Academy, in collaboration with Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) and its campus police, is set to host a Law Enforcement Recruitment Event on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be held in the second-floor lobby of the FLCC Student Center.
Representatives from various law enforcement agencies affiliated with the academy will be present to discuss career opportunities in policing and offer guidance to prospective candidates. Attendees can also receive on-site assistance with registering for the upcoming Police Officer and Deputy Sheriff Civil Service exams.
This recruitment drive comes at a critical time, as law enforcement agencies across New York State face significant staffing challenges. The New York Police Department (NYPD), for instance, has experienced a 55% decline in applicants over the past eight years, dropping from 18,000 in 2017 to just 8,000 in 2025. Factors contributing to this decline include negative public perception, high job demands, safety concerns, and political pressures. In response, the NYPD has implemented initiatives such as reinstating the 1.5-mile timed run requirement and reducing college credit prerequisites to attract more candidates.
To further support recruitment efforts, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced in August 2024 that all state civil service exam application fees would be waived through December 2025. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers for individuals pursuing careers in law enforcement and other civil service sectors.
The Finger Lakes Law Enforcement Academy serves multiple counties, including Ontario, Wayne, Yates, Livingston, Seneca, and Cayuga, as well as various city, town, and village police departments. The academy is committed to providing comprehensive training that meets and often exceeds the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services’ standards, ensuring that recruits are well-prepared to serve their communities.
Individuals interested in a law enforcement career are encouraged to attend the March 12 event to connect with professionals, gain insights into the hiring process, and take advantage of resources designed to facilitate entry into the field.
