Some Albuquerque officials say they are troubled that top staffers in the city's police department are getting salary bonuses. City councilors say retention bonuses are meant for rank-and-file officers, not department executives.
The city council received data this week showing a request for $1 million in annual retention pay for more than 100 officers, including Police Chief Gorden Eden and some deputy chiefs.
The city last month adopted legislation offering up to $12,000 to officers within one or two years of retirement. The measure is an effort to help with an officer shortage.
A police spokesman says Eden is declining the bonus.
The Albuquerque police union says it supports officers of any rank receiving pay for which they are eligible.
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Information from: Albuquerque Journal, http://www.abqjournal.com
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