Louisville police department focuses on diversity in recruitment efforts

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police Department wants its officers to better reflect the people they serve.

More LMPD officers will be patrolling the streets once the next recruitment class, currently with 33 recruits, graduates.

The goal isn't just to get more officers but bring in recruits that represent the community.

"I have one African American female, and she said she wants to see more people in the department like her," said Sgt. Amanda Seeyle, with LMPD Basic Training.

Here's how the latest class breaks down:

29 men
4 women
23 recruits are white
8 recruits are Black
1 recruit is Hispanic
1 recruit is Asian

According to LMPD's 2024 annual report, about 81% of officers were white, about 13% are Black and about 6% are other races.

"You see a lot of male officers you don't see a lot of Black officers? But does it really matter," Louisville resident Denise Cooper said.

"I don't think it should matter if it's more women or more men," Cooper said. "It should just be better training."

Cooper, who lives in west Louisville, said in recent years there's been a breakdown in trust between people and police.

"Ask how we feel about things, what is happening, connect with us," she said.

Louisville resident Shelby Chapman said she thinks it’s getting better.

"I think the growth that's happened over the last two years can continue," Chapman said. "It's growth in diversity and training."

But there's still a long way to go, she said.

"Other people from other backgrounds, they relate to police in a different way," Chapman said. "I think as a community in Louisville we are addressing that stigma."

"I think our community is really ready for some change," Cooper said. "We are just ready, and we need that."

LMPD said officers are holding job fairs in neighborhoods across the city and taking part in various community events to build relationships and diversify recruiting classes.

More Local News:

'Barbie Land' takes over Louisville this weekend with national convention, truck tour

Louisville police warn parents about kids in masks spotted with realistic fake guns