Law enforcement agencies across New Hampshire continue to face significant recruitment and retention challenges. Finding qualified candidates has become increasingly difficult, and many communities continue to operate below their authorized staffing levels.

During his June 15, 2026, Town Manager’s Report, Town Manager Joe Devine provided an update on staffing within the Salem Police Department. Devine announced that, following the acceptance of two recent employment offers, the department is now fully staffed at its authorized strength of 70 sworn officers.

To the best of the Town’s knowledge, this marks the first time in the Salem Police Department’s history that all 70 authorized sworn positions have been filled.

Devine recognized the milestone as a testament to the hard work of Police Chief Joel Dolan and the entire Police Department leadership team, who have remained focused on recruitment and retention despite the challenges facing the law enforcement profession.

Maintaining a fully staffed Police Department improves service delivery, reduces overtime pressures, supports officer wellness, and helps ensure the Town can continue providing the high level of public safety services Salem residents expect.

Although recruitment and retention will remain ongoing priorities and staffing levels may change over time, reaching the department’s full authorized strength represents a significant accomplishment for the Salem Police Department and the community it serves.