Time is ticking for those aspiring to join the ranks of law enforcement in Las Cruces. The Las Cruces Police Department's application deadline for its next academy class is just around the corner, pegged for September 8. This upcoming cohort, which will commence training in January 2026, opens opportunities especially for students at New Mexico State University. A first-of-its-kind initiative allows these students to amass 15 academic credits while attending the LCPD academy, a move that intertwines theoretical learning with the hard grit of police training.
According to Las Cruces Police Department, this novel opportunity comes with an attractive package: students can earn $24 per hour during their time at the academy. Encouraged to bridge the gap between academics and practical work, NMSU's criminal justice students are looking at prospects akin to an internship, but with the added benefit of pay. The starting salary for cadets once accepted into the academy isn't something to be scoffed at, standing at $24 for regular hours and $36 for overtime.
The financial perks extend beyond mere hourly wages. For cadets willing to pledge three years to LCPD, the department offers noteworthy hiring incentives, which, depending on one's educational background or military service, can range from $11,000 to an enticing $30,000. LCPD seems to understand that the lure of education and service comes with its own price, rewarding higher degrees in sociology, psychology, criminal justice, or criminology with higher bonuses. Those relocating to Las Cruces for the job can also look forward to up to $5,000 in relocation assistance.
LCPD is bolstering its support for new officers, not just in terms of compensation, but also by providing substantial leave benefits. After concluding a one-year probationary period, first-year officers are to earn a generous 256 hours of leave each year, which is composed of personal, annual, and sick leave. Working four 10-hour shifts means those hours quickly add up, equating to numerous days off annually in addition to holidays and regular days off.
The Las Cruces Police Department is ramping up its efforts to grow its force. Amidst staffing needs, with a current strength of 182 officers out of an allocated 220, LCPD is casting its net wide to attract potential candidates. Applicants need to be U.S. citizens or authorized to work by the USCIS, at least 19 years old by the start of the academy, possess at least a high school diploma, and have a clean legal slate with no felony convictions.
