Lateral Entry Program
Often, those who appreciate the high standards enforced by The Decatur Police Department are officers looking
to make lateral career moves from other departments. Our philosophy and approach offer a stark alternative to
many over tasked, under appreciated positions on other metropolitan police forces.
Our lateral entry program provides pay and vacation leave incentives for applicants with the qualifying law
enforcement experience listed below.
A. Experience/Qualifications Starting Salary
| Certified or 4-year college degree |
$38,084 |
| Certified and 4-year college degree |
$39,998 |
| 2 years |
$40,996 |
| 3 years |
$41,995 |
| 4 years |
$43,056 |
| 5 years |
$45,219 |
B. Officers hired under the lateral entry program who have at least 3-5 years' qualified
experience will earn vacation leave at an accelerated rate:
| 0-3 years |
88 hours |
| 3-15 years |
112 hours |