In 2024, law enforcement officers have faced new challenges impacting how police departments operate, recruit, and manage risk. For insurance agents with law enforcement clients, staying ahead of these changes and ensuring that police insurance policies are comprehensive, updated, and tailored to the unique risks officers face has become essential. 

By reviewing the key challenges from 2024, we can discover how agents can help their clients navigate similar issues in the future with comprehensive insurance coverage.

Recruitment and Retention Struggles

One of the most pressing issues for law enforcement in 2024 was the ongoing recruitment and retention challenge. Despite recent improvements, with a year-over-year increase in sworn officers for the first time since the pandemic, many agencies — especially large ones — remained understaffed compared to pre-2020 levels. This shortage was particularly evident in smaller departments, where resignations and retirements stayed high.

For police departments, this situation had critical implications. Understaffed forces often led to overworked officers, increasing the likelihood of mistakes, burnout, and liability claims. Ensuring that police insurance policies accounted for these staffing challenges was essential for insurance agents. Going forward, agents must verify that liability limits are adequate and address potential gaps in coverage to protect departments from claims related to officer fatigue, errors in judgment, and increased workload.

Increased Scrutiny and Accountability

Public scrutiny of police actions remained high in 2024, increasing the risk of prosecution for on-duty actions. In recent years, concern over being held legally accountable grew among officers, as shown by industry surveys. Officers worried not only about physical risks but also the legal repercussions of split-second decisions made in the field.

For example, the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to review Barnes v. Felix offers an important opportunity to clarify the debated “officer-created jeopardy” theory in use-of-force cases. This theory suggests that officers could be held liable if their actions before using force, even if unintentional, escalate a situation. This approach contrasts with the previous standard, which assesses the “objective reasonableness” of an officer’s actions only at the moment force is used, without considering earlier decisions.

This rising concern underscores the need for a police insurance policy with a robust legal defense coverage. Agents need to ensure that their clients’ policies provide strong legal protection, covering defense costs in the event of litigation or claims of misconduct. Coverage for settlements or judgments was also essential, safeguarding both officers and departments from the financial burden of legal disputes.

Officer Wellness and Mental Health

The mental health and wellness of officers became an increasingly important focus in 2024. High-stress levels, public criticism, and personal safety concerns took a toll on officer morale and well-being. This challenge had direct implications for insurance, as mental health issues led to decreased performance, increased absences, and higher claims for disability or workers’ compensation.

Insurance agents have an opportunity to support officer wellness by advising clients to include mental health support in their coverage. Policies that included access to wellness programs, counseling, and other resources helped officers manage stress and mental health challenges, ultimately reducing the risk of claims related to burnout or mental health crises.

Technological Shifts: AI and Automation

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation integration into police work transform how officers carry out their duties. From predictive policing to data analysis, artificial intelligence (AI) enabled departments to detect criminal patterns and respond more effectively in 2024. However, these advances came with new risks, particularly with privacy, data security, and the legality of using AI in law enforcement.

Insurance agents need to ensure their clients’ policies are equipped to handle the liability associated with AI and technology use. Automated decision-making may lead to data breaches, unauthorized use of AI tools, and potential lawsuits. As AI becomes more integral to police work, specialized endorsements or coverage for technology-related risks prove essential.

Evolving Legal and Social Changes

Shifts in law enforcement priorities, particularly around drug decriminalization, reshaped enforcement practices this year. Many states and municipalities adopted harm-reduction strategies over punitive approaches, requiring officers to retrain and update enforcement protocols.

As law enforcement adjusted, insurance agents needed to review their clients’ policies to ensure they reflected these shifts. Coverage should account for new training programs, changes in how officers interact with individuals in drug-related situations, and the risks associated with a more rehabilitative approach.

Looking Forward

As we look toward 2025, law enforcement will continue to face challenges in recruitment, accountability, and adapting to new technologies. For insurance agents, this means prioritizing comprehensive coverage that includes legal defense, wellness support, and policy updates for technology-related risks. With social and legal priorities shifting, such as drug decriminalization, agents should proactively assess and adjust policies, helping their law enforcement clients stay prepared for the evolving landscape of modern policing.