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CONTINUANCE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND THE PROBATIONARY PERIOD FOR LATERAL ENTRY POLICE OFFICERS FROM 18 MONTHS TO 12 MONTHS FOR THE STOCKTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
recommended action
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Civil Service Commission adopt a resolution to amend Rule VIII, Section 1 (a) of the Civil Service Rules and Regulations for Police and Fire Employees.
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SUMMARY
The Police Department has requested that Human Resources amend the probationary period for Lateral Entry Police Officers from an 18-Month probationary period to a 12-Month probationary period.
Reducing the probationary period for lateral entry Police Officers from 18 months to 12 months acknowledges the significant training, experience, and demonstrated competence these officers bring from prior law enforcement service. A 12-month probationary period provides adequate time to evaluate performance, adaptability, and adherence to departmental standards while enhancing the agency's ability to recruit and retain highly qualified candidates. This change promotes workforce stability, reduces administrative burden, and strengthens the department's competitiveness in attracting experienced law enforcement professionals.
(Current)
Rule VIII, Section 1
(a)Duration of Probation. All original entrance appointments, including appointments made form the lateral entry list and the academy graduate list, shall be tentative and subject to a probationary period of 18 months.
(Proposed)
Rule VIII, Section 1
(a)Duration of Probation. All original entrance appointments, including appointments made from the academy graduate list, shall be tentative and subject to a probationary period of 18 months. Appointments made from the lateral entry list shall be tentative and subject to a probationary period of 12 months.
The Stockton Police Officer’s Association (SPOA) bargaining unit was notified of the rule amendment and concurred with the amendment on July 7, 2026 and there were no objections.
At the September 17, 2026, Civil Service Commission meeting, the public hearing was held and City Staff were directed to provide a response to the following questions and continue the public hearing at the next scheduled meeting on October 15, 2026.
• Why is a 12-month probationary period considered sufficient, compared to the current 18-month probationary period?
• What evaluations will lateral Police Officers receive in the 12-month probationary period?
• Is there a background review of the lateral Police Officer applicants to ensure there are no complaints or disciplinary actions with their previous department(s)?
• Will there be adequate time (12 months) for sensitivity training and to ensure staff are a good fit the City of Stockton’s needs?
• What evidence shows that reducing the probationary period would not affect the accountability of the public’s safety?
• What are other agencies probationary period for lateral Police Officers? Is 12 months the more common probationary period with other agencies?
• Why does Stockton currently have an 18-month probation?
AUTHORITY
Rule II, Section 3 (b) of the Civil Service Rules and Regulations for Police and Fire Employees provides that the Civil Service Commission shall approve or adopt new rules, or amendments, revision or repeal of an existing rule.
Attachment A - Redline - Rule VIII, Section 1 (a)
Exhibit 1 - Final - Rule VIII, Section 1 (a)