Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office Boosts Recruitment During Staffing Shortage

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

September 27, 2024

By Natalie Cook Clark

Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is currently experiencing a staffing shortage that includes less law enforcement being on the streets. The department is taking action to fill roles that have likely been impacted by the 2020 protests and pandemic.

Photo credit: FBCSO

All Katy Area Police Agencies are Hiring

All local police agencies in the Katy area are hiring. Fort Bend County Sheriff’s (FBCSO) is being up front about their current need due to a staffing shortage. According to FBCSO, they only have 87% of law enforcement positions filled.

Fort Bend County Sheriff Talks Shortages

Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan believes that several factors contribute to the challenge of recruiting new officers. In the wake of the 2020 protests against police brutality, some individuals have become reluctant to join law enforcement. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic deterred potential recruits, as they saw officers being exposed to the virus.

"At the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, we take pride in being the largest and most diverse law enforcement agency in the county. Our team reflects the community we serve, and we offer growth opportunities like no other," says Sheriff Eric Fagan. "If you're looking for a place where you can make a real difference and be of service to others, this is the place for you."

Another factor is the new state law requiring armed security in schools, which has created competition between law enforcement agencies and school districts for qualified employees. Despite these challenges, Sheriff Fagan is committed to ensuring that the department is fully staffed to continue providing the highest level of service to the community.

Apply Online, Register for Hiring Event  

While applicants can always find positions listed online, FBCSO will host a hiring event on Saturday, October 19th, from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy (1521 Eugene Heimann Circle, Richmond, TX 77469.)

The Department is looking to hire multiple positions. They are urgently recruiting for Detention Officers, 9-1-1 Dispatchers, Patrol Deputies, and other critical roles to address staffing shortages. Positions include:

• Telecommunications Officer/ Dispatcher 

• Detention Officers (Civilian and Sworn)

• Patrol Deputies

• Attached you will find descriptions of each position. .

Attendees of the event will have the opportunity to receive conditional job offers on the spot and engage directly with FBCSO recruiters.

Pre-registration online for the event is strongly recommended to expedite the hiring process.

"We are facing staffing shortages, and it is vital that we fill these vacancies to maintain the high level of service and safety the Fort Bend County community expects and deserves," says Sheriff Eric Fagan. "This hiring event will help ensure we have the personnel needed to continue our efforts to protect and serve."

Katy is a tri-county area that is serviced by several police agencies. To learn more about the agencies that keep our community safe, read our Katy Magazine feature.

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