LAPD Expects Olympic Security to Cost $1.15B

The Los Angeles Police Department estimates that security costs for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games could reach approximately $1.15 billion. The projection was detailed in a memo presented Thursday to the Los Angeles City Council Budget and Finance Committee. The estimated cost represents more than half of the department’s current annual operating budget, which is roughly $2 billion.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said the department is currently capable of supplying only about one-third of the peak staffing levels required during the international sporting events. According to McDonnell, the remaining personnel would need to come from outside law enforcement agencies, significantly increasing costs because officers would be hired at premium pay rates. In addition to salaries, the city would also need to cover lodging and other accommodations for outside officers brought into Los Angeles. Officials emphasized that the LAPD must still maintain normal police coverage across the city while providing enhanced Olympic security operations.