Amid Nationwide Officer Shortage, Crystal Police See Stable Numbers

It’s no secret that police departments across the country are struggling with staffing. Part of the shortage issue is attributed to retirements. It also has been a challenge to get people interested in law enforcement.

But the city of Crystal has been fortunate. The agency has been stable for the last three years.

“There has not been a day that I have not loved coming to work,” said Crystal Deputy Police Chief Brian Hubbard.

The department is authorized for 34 sworn officers. It’s currently at 32. Hubbard says the numbers have been stable, even during the height of the pandemic when everyone else was struggling to find staff.

Deputy Chief Brian Hubbard and another officer monitor a police pursuit.

“We don’t offer any bonus incentives for people to come or to stay,” said Hubbard. We’re where we normally sit right now. “

Hubbard says the leadership has done its best to ensure staff feels supported, encouraged and appreciated.

“If we can wrap around a person totally and be supportive of them and encourage them, help them, then they’re going to come and do better work.”

To manage the stresses of the job, Hubbard says there is physical and mental health support for Crystal police officers.

“We’ve created some incentives for working out. We allow people to work out while on duty if the calls allow it,” he explained.

Everyone must also meet with a mental health therapist at least once a year.

Hubbard says those things have helped as officers try to serve and protect Crystal residents.

“I work with an outstanding team of people who come and give everything they have every day,” he said.

Also See: Golden Valley Police Chief Calls Staffing Shortages ‘A Concern’

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