Dozens of HPD recruits report for training

HOUSTON Chief Charles McClelland was on hand earlier this morning as 73 men and women started their training courses. This is the 211th police academy cadet class. These future officers will undergo 26 weeks of rigorous training prior to graduation.

Chief McClelland says it's important to keep young, fresh talent coming into the agency, as many veterans start to retire.

"Our department is greying a little bit, so as individuals like myself with time and tenure, we can't stay on forever," said Chief McClelland. "So we need an infusion of young talent."

Just last week, HPD laid off 153 civilian workers. No officers are expected to lose their jobs.