LAPD Projects Staggering $1.15 Billion Security Cost for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

The Los Angeles Police Department estimates it will cost $1.15 billion to staff the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, according to a memo presented this week to the City Council's Budget and Finance Committee. The projection, detailed in a letter from LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, is equivalent to roughly half of the department's current annual budget of $2 billion.

McDonnell noted that the LAPD can only provide about one-third of the peak staffing demand required for the Games. The remaining two-thirds of the force must be filled by outside law enforcement agencies at premium rates, which the Chief identified as the single largest driver of the total cost.

The $1.15 billion estimate covers personnel costs for LAPD officers, as well as lodging and pay for outside agencies brought in to manage crowds and secure venues. Crucially, the budget also accounts for the staffing needed to maintain regular police services across the city of Los Angeles while the global event is underway.

The memo also highlights a looming staffing challenge for the department. Sworn staffing is projected to fall to approximately 8,400 officers by the time the Games arrive—more than 200 fewer than the department has now—indicating that retirements are expected to outpace new hiring.

City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo suggested that state and federal funding may be available to help cover the projected security costs. Additionally, the state may take a lead role in coordinating and managing the deployment of the various outside law enforcement agencies required to keep the event secure.

Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.