“This retention bonus package for MCSO Detention Officers is a significant investment in the Sheriff’s Office, which is part of a larger effort to recruit and retain excellent law enforcement personnel countywide.
Today’s action by the Board takes the first step in increasing overall compensation for the most in-demand positions at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
I am grateful to my colleagues and Sheriff Jerry Sheridan for their commitment to a detention officer pay plan that is generous, fair, and most importantly, fiscally responsible.
I look forward to keeping my promise to work on improved compensation for sworn deputies and dispatchers as well, when we consider the overall county budget later this month.”
Board Votes to Boost Pay for Maricopa County Detention Officers
Today the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approved a historic $30 million compensation package for detention officers, part of a larger effort to recruit and retain top law enforcement talent countywide.
“With this vote, we’re taking the first step in increasing overall compensation for the most in-demand positions at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office,” said Chairman Thomas Galvin, District 2. “I’m grateful to my colleagues and Sheriff Jerry Sheridan for their commitment to a detention officer pay plan that’s generous, fair, and also fiscally responsible. And I’m looking forward to keeping my promise to improve pay for sworn deputies and dispatchers, as well, when we vote on the overall county budget later this month.”
The pay package approved today provides one-time bonuses to MCSO detention officers (DO’s) over a three-year period. DO’s with 20+ years of service could receive as much as $25,000 in bonus pay over that period of time.
“Since taking office on January 1, it’s been a privilege working alongside the board members. They’ve shown a genuine commitment to understanding the challenging conditions our detention officers face,” said Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan. “In recognition of that, the board has made a significant investment to support and strengthen the future of our operations.”
“This plan provides critical support for our jails and recognizes the work of our detention officers,” said Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee, District 3. “While a full step plan isn’t fiscally sustainable at this time, this approach allows us to move forward responsibly and make a real impact as MCSO continues to ramp up recruitment while retaining staff.”
The first bonuses will be paid out immediately, based on years of service, using vacancy savings in MCSO’s current FY 2025 budget:
- 20+ years = $10,000
- 15-19 years = $7,500
- 10-14 years = $5,000
- 5-9 years = $2,500
- 0-4 years = $1,500
“Supporting law enforcement is one of my top priorities, and one of the best ways we can do that is by making sure they are fully staffed,” said Supervisor Mark Stewart, District 1. “This plan should help MCSO keep good detention officers on staff and hire new recruits to fill vacant positions so that our jails are as safe as they can be.”
“Maricopa County is investing in public safety in significant and historic ways this year,” said Supervisor Debbie Lesko, District 4. “From better pay for sworn officers to improvements in technology and infrastructure, I’m proud to partner with Sheriff Sheridan to prioritize safe communities.”
The Board also approved retention bonuses for fiscal years 2026-2028 with all DO’s set to receive the same amount each year
- 2026: $2,500
- 2027: $5,000
- 2028: $7,500
“Detention officers do such important work, but it’s tough. There’s no doubt about it. And the reality is, our current staff is stretched thin because of all the vacant positions in our jails,” said Supervisor Steve Gallardo, District 5. “That’s why I’m excited to vote for this compensation package that is going to give people a pretty compelling financial incentive to work for MCSO.”
The FY 2025 plan is estimated to cost $8.4 million and the FY 2026 – 2028 plan is estimated to cost $22.3 million.
All bonuses are contingent upon the recipient remaining employed as an MCSO detention officer for a full year after the payment.
