DeKalb County CEO Takes Bold, Unwavering Action to Strengthen Public Safety: Increased Pay for Police Officers Effective March 1

Less than 60 days into office, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has delivered on her commitment to public safety, making historic investments in the DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD). In an uncompromising effort to strengthen law enforcement and protect the community, CEO Cochran-Johnson has directed a multi-million-dollar investment in officer salaries to enhance retention and attract top-tier talent to the force. 

Effective March 1, 2025, sworn officers and recruits will receive substantial salary increases, fulfilling a key promise from her campaign and reinforcing her administration’s dedication to those who protect and serve DeKalb County. 

Key Salary Adjustments Include: 
•    Police Recruits: Base salary increased to $61,000 ($64,050 with a degree) 
•    Police Officers: Base salary increased to $62,525 ($65,651 with a degree) 
•    Police Officer Senior: New base salary of $70,000 ($73,500 with a degree) 
•    Master Police Officers, Helicopter Pilots, Sergeants, Lieutenants, Captains, and Majors will receive a 7.1% salary increase 
 

The pay increase makes DeKalb County officers among the highest paid officers in metro Atlanta. “This pay increase is not just about numbers—it’s about valuing the men and women who put their lives on the line every day for DeKalb County. Investing in public safety is an investment in economic development, property values, and the well-being of our entire community My administration is committed to ensuring our officers have the support, resources, and respect they deserve,” said CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. Investing in public safety is an investment in economic development, property values, and the well-being of our entire community. My administration is committed to ensuring our officers have the support, resources, and respect they deserve,” said CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. 

The pay increase is a part of a comprehensive strategy that includes a $500 monthly housing allowance, medical coverage, a non-violence initiative in partnership with DeKalb County Schools, the creation of the DeKalb Police Foundation, and the development of a proposed $2 million real-time crime technology center. “Although pay is important, I realize we need a comprehensive approach to public safety that extends beyond pay increases.” 
 

Police Recruiting Event Announced 
 

As part of the ongoing effort to expand the department and improve public safety, DKPD is actively seeking new recruits. DeKalb County will host a Police Recruitment Event: 
 

Date: March 8, 2025 
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 
Location: DeKalb South Police Precinct 
2842 H F Shepherd Drive, Decatur, GA 30034 
 

The event will provide an opportunity for prospective officers to learn about available positions, meet with department leadership, and begin the application process. 

“This is just the beginning,” Cochran-Johnson added. “In less than two months, my administration has already begun delivering on the promises I made to DeKalb County. This pay increase and recruitment effort marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to make DeKalb safer and stronger.” 

For more information on the pay adjustments or recruitment opportunities, visit Home - DeKalb County PD or contact Det. Lesa Laird at ltlaird@dekalbcountyga.gov or 770-724-7448.