Record number of minorities apply for Chicago police jobs

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A record number of minorities applied to become Chicago police officers, according to the Chicago Police Department.

The application deadline was Sunday.

In the final week, more than 200 people submitted applications daily. The final number of candidates has not yet been determined.

In an effort to recruit more diverse candidates, the police department held recruitment events at local churches, schools and community events.

The starting salary for Chicago police officers is $47,604 and increases to $72,510 after eighteen months of employment.