The 38th Guam Legislature convened on June 13, 2025, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, with a focus on the Guam Police Department (GPD) and its ongoing initiatives aimed at improving law enforcement and community relations. The meeting highlighted several key areas of development, including recruitment strategies, training programs, and community engagement efforts.

One of the primary topics was the agreement between GPD and Guam Community College (GCC) regarding the training of police recruits. Under this agreement, recruits must serve in the GPD for three years following their training, or they will be subject to a sliding scale repayment for their education costs. This initiative aims to enhance recruitment and retention within the department, addressing ongoing challenges in maintaining adequate staffing levels.

The GPD also presented data on its operational performance from 2021 to 2024, revealing that officers responded to an average of 129,738 calls annually, resulting in approximately 34,853 crime reports and 15,128 arrests over the four-year period. This data underscores the demands placed on the department and the need for effective recruitment and training strategies to ensure officers are well-prepared to handle a variety of incidents.

In an effort to build stronger ties with the community, GPD is launching a Criminal Justice Pilot Program in the upcoming school year. This program will allow students to earn credits through a course taught by law enforcement officers, covering topics such as criminal investigation and forensic science. The initiative aims to foster collaboration with local schools and create pathways for students to consider careers in law enforcement.

Training programs were also a significant focus of the meeting. GPD officials discussed various training initiatives, including advanced courses in homicide investigations and crash scene management, funded through federal grants. These programs are designed to enhance the skills of officers and improve the overall quality of law enforcement services in Guam.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing the challenges faced by the GPD, particularly in recruitment and training. As the department seeks to improve its operational effectiveness and community relations, the discussions from this budget hearing will play a crucial role in shaping future initiatives and funding allocations. The legislature's support will be vital in ensuring that GPD can meet the evolving needs of the community it serves.