Police departments are having a tough time finding recruits these days.
Sgt. Carolyn Deal, who recruits for the Shreveport Police Department, has about 30 slots to fill.
"When I took the civil service test, we filled up the Expo Hall. You don't have that many people applying any more," Deal said.
Each recruit undergoes a battery of tests, both physical and mental, as well as background checks.
Shreveport and Bossier City, like many other departments, are relaxing one test: past drug use.
"Very rarely -- and I know parents don't want to hear this -- do you find a child that's graduated from high school that at least hasn't tried marijuana or ecstacy," said Bossier City Police Chief Mike Halphen.
Pay is also a big factor in landing recruits. Shreveport goes to other towns and cities looking for applicants. Bossier City has considered signing bonuses.
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