As we kick off the new year, there’s no better time to look back at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s most-clicked recruitment blog posts of 2025. These stories highlight salary and hiring updates, behind-the-badge insights and top tips for those considering a career in law enforcement. Here are your top reads from the past year:
No. 5 | Stand Out When You Apply to CMPD: Tips from a Recruitment Commander
In this May post, Major Brian Sanders, commander of CMPD’s Recruitment and Training Bureau, breaks down what makes a strong candidate and how applicants can shine during the hiring process. He highlights qualities like integrity, discipline, work ethic and selflessness. He also offers practical advice for navigating recruitment and training, whether you’re a recent graduate, military veteran or simply ready for a new challenge.
No. 4 | Behind the Badge with Real Time Crime Center Detective Williams
Ever wonder what happens behind the scenes of CMPD’s tech-driven Real Time Crime Center (RTCC)? In this January profile, Detective Amanda Williams shares how the RTCC operates using cameras, databases and analytics to assist officers in real time, from monitoring priority calls to tracking subjects and enhancing investigations. It’s an intriguing look at how modern policing and technology intersect.
No. 3 | Behind the Badge with Criminal Intelligence Division Detective Stafford
Detective Kevin Stafford’s story takes us inside CMPD’s Criminal Intelligence Division. In this Q&A, he discusses how his background and curiosity led him to this specialist unit, what a typical day looks like and the impact intelligence work has on public safety. The conversation offers a unique perspective on specialized opportunities within CMPD for officers looking to grow and advance in their careers.
No. 2 | We Know How Valuable You Are: Police Officer Hiring Bonus
This post highlights CMPD’s $7,500 hiring bonus program for both new recruits and lateral officers, a key incentive showing the department’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent. The bonus is structured to reward officers throughout training and into their first year of service.
No. 1 | City of Charlotte Increases Officer Pay for FY26
Rounding out the top spot, this post outlines key updates from the City of Charlotte’s FY26 budget that directly impact CMPD officers. The update includes an increase in officer pay, a higher starting salary for new recruits, and the continuation of the $7,500 hiring bonus for both new and lateral officers.
It also highlights additional incentives such as step increases, jurisdictional pay, education benefits and retirement contributions, reinforcing the city’s continued investment in the people who serve Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.
Accelerate your career here
Ready to take the next step toward a career with CMPD? Whether you’re interested in a sworn officer path or a civilian role, there are many opportunities to serve and grow. Visit our Careers page to start your application or learn more about what it takes to join our team.
