Kearney Police Department, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
LINCOLN — Nebraska Backs the Blue!
The Nebraska Crime Commission will share that message with law enforcement officers from across the entire country with a unique campaign set for National Police Week gatherings in Washington D.C.
“From the extraordinary public support of our police agencies across Nebraska to the generous recruiting incentives in place, we’re working to get the word out nationally that Nebraska is a great place to serve as a police officer,” said Bryan Tuma, Director of the Nebraska Crime Commission.
“Police Week brings officers from across the nation to Washington D.C. so we’re going to showcase why current officers should consider continuing their career in Nebraska.”
The effort is not specific to any one Nebraska law enforcement agency but aims to spread the word that all Nebraska agencies have much to offer to potential candidates. Among the incentives available to Nebraska police officers are:
• 100% Tuition Waiver for sworn officers and their dependents. This waiver applies to any state university, college, of community college.
• Cash Incentives: New hires are eligible to receive up to a $7,500 bonus upon Nebraska certification. Nebraska also offers retention bonuses on the first, third, and fifth year of employment.
In addition to those benefits, Nebraskans offer unmatched support for law enforcement. In a time when many states have seen a decline in public support for police officers, Nebraska has remained committed to public safety by working to recruit new officers to serve in communities across the state.
“Those who choose to pursue a career in law enforcement are answering a call that comes from deep within,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “It is almost undeniable. They know they are meant to do something noble and important in public service. The opportunities to make a difference – in communities large and small – are everywhere here in Nebraska.”
During Police Week, the Nebraska Crime Commission will highlight Nebraska’s support to police officers with a moving digital billboard. The billboard will focus on the area around National Police Week Tent City, which is a festival and expo space hosting thousands of officers and their families.
“While respect for law enforcement has deteriorated in large urban centers, Nebraska has continued our tradition of supporting the men and woman who wear the uniform and keep our communities safe each and every day,” said Rep. Mike Flood. “The Nebraska Crime Commission is doing great work so that Nebraska gets the message out to the entire country that we back the blue and want more peace
officers here in the Good Life.”
Earlier this year, a loose coalition of law enforcement leaders and public officials launched “Nebraska Backs the Blue.”
