Stockton police officers make thousands less than their counterparts in nearby cities, a sticking point that has held up contract negotiations between the city and its police union.
Both starting and maximum annual salaries for the department’s rank and file officers and sergeants range anywhere from as little as about $12,000 to nearly $40,000 less than those of departments in San Joaquin County’s four other largest cities.
The Stockton Police Officers Association overwhelmingly rejected a nearly $40 million budget increase during contract negotiations with the city last month, citing pay disparity as one of the main issues.
Lower pay has also been cited as a leading reason for the department being unable to recruit and retain staffing levels. As of Monday, police spokesperson Joe Silva said the department currently employs 393 sworn officers, though it’s considered fully staffed at 485.
“If they begin their career here, (officers) are maxed out on pay and benefits within five years,” Newly-minted SPOA President Patrick High said. “And somebody that’s been here for 25 years makes the same amount as the person that was here for only five years, because there’s no longevity pay.” …
Cassie Dickman 