Bigger Could Mean Better for Prince George's Police Force

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, Md. - Prince George's County is boasting that it now has the largest police force in its history. But with a record 167 murders this year, leaders realize they still have their work cut out for them.

The newest 117 police recruits make up the largest classes in Prince George's County will join the largest police force ever.

Prince George's County Police Chief Melvin High told the recruits Wednesday that they "represent a giant step forward for our department and the county."

The record-breaking class -- 43 of of whom are slated to graduate in March -- increases the force to 1,478 officers.

High said the growing police force will help combat escalating crime in the county.

"We can get out on the street in the right numbers and be in the right places at the right time ....Clearly this department has not had the resources in the last few years," he said.

Prince George's County Executive Jack Johnson said until now, it was difficult for the police department to keep up with the soaring county population. In 2004, Johnson announced the county would hire 150 new police officers annually until 2010.

Now, the county says it will hire 200 recruits in 2006 -- 50 more officers than initially intended.

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