EAST HARTFORD — Among six new East Hartford police officers to be sworn in Monday, four come from the Hartford police force, likely drawn across the river in part by a more attractive benefits package.
All six officers previously served with other Connecticut police departments. East Hartford police spokesman Lt. Josh Litwn said the town’s pension and other benefits are “definitely advantageous” in attracting top tier candidates. Beginning annual pay in East Hartford is $62,541, but since the new officers all have experience, they will start at $69,122, Litwin said.
Hartford police union President Anthony Rinaldi has said that “the anti-police climate, along with our pay scale and benefits, are the factors that are driving younger officers, some of which are Hartford residents, to other towns because of higher pay, better benefits and retirements.