The Los Angeles Police Department is considering suspending its police academy in 2028 to reassign more than 300 training officers to patrol the city during the Olympic Games, according to sources familiar with internal discussions. The proposal, which was raised during a recent senior staff meeting, would pause academy operations for several months following the January 2028 graduating class.

A city official familiar with the discussions, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the talks, emphasized that the plan has not been approved and remains under consideration. “They’re trying to find staff,” the official said, describing the plan as one of several options being explored to bolster security during the Games.

However, the proposal has prompted debate within the department. Some leaders express concern that halting academy classes could exacerbate existing recruitment challenges, potentially driving prospective officers to other law enforcement agencies. There are also worries about the strain this pause could place on the department’s ability to replenish its ranks afterward, as larger academy classes might be required to make up for the hiring gap.

The Los Angeles Police Protective League Board of Directors criticized the possible suspension, stating that while pausing recruitment may address immediate Olympic security needs, it would be detrimental to the city’s long-term safety. Rank-and-file officers have echoed these concerns, warning that interrupting the hiring pipeline could have negative effects on the department for years.

In addition to the academy suspension proposal, the LAPD is reportedly exploring options to supplement its Olympic staffing by bringing in officers from other law enforcement agencies across California and from out of state. This approach aims to enhance personnel levels without compromising the academy’s operation, though details remain fluid as planning continues.