Birmingham Police has seen a high level of participation in physical agility testing

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – A week after a mass shooting in Birmingham that left four people dead and 17 others injured, the BPD ordered dozens of police applicants to undergo agility physicals.

Due to the recent violence, people are now trying to find a solution to stop it all. Some say more officers on the streets would increase safety in the city.

Officer Truman Fitzgerald with BPD says nearly 80 people showed up, the most in many years.

LaQuanda Hall, one of the applicants, said this was her third time taking the test. She noticed the sharp increase in the number of participants.

“Since my first time, we’ve had about 10 people in the class,” she said. “Second, we had 15 and now, as you can see, we have almost a full class!”

Fitzgerald said it was inspiring to see so many people.

“Look at how many women and men have woken up a week after one of Birmingham’s worst tragedies and chosen to join Birmingham Police. They are the rock and glue that holds this city together.”

The demonstration includes a 1.5-mile timed run and an obstacle course.

Hall said people are turning to law enforcement because they are tired of seeing violence grip the city.

“It’s just sad,” she said. “These parents are losing their lives. Children lose their fathers, their mothers. It’s getting worse and we need to change.”

She hopes people get involved to make a difference in their community.

“We need to change as a community,” Hall said. “We have to change as a people. We have to come together. I have two small children and I always say, “I won’t raise my son in this state,” but I love this state. This is my second home. I want to be here when the change happens. I want to see the change. I want to be part of the change.”

After candidates pass the agility test, they undergo a background check, polygraph examination and psychological evaluation.

If you missed the test but are still interested in joining the force, Fitzgerald said don’t be discouraged and call 205-254-1712 for more information.

All new employees receive a $5,000 sign-on bonus.

BPD offered the following pay scale:

• $50,190.40, high school/GED
• $52,686.40, Associate’s degree
• $55,328.00, Bachelor’s Degree

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