Erie at a glance
Population by race and Hispanic origin
Cities in this database with the most similarly-sized populations
Full-time law enforcement staff, Erie Police Department
- 189 Officers
- 23 Civilian staff
Full-time law enforcement officers per 1,000 residents
- 2.28 Erie
- 1.6 National average, cities with 50,000 to 99,999 population
- 2.2 National average
These figures reflect the Erie Police Department only, and do not include state or other police agencies that may be present in this location.
Federal grant funding for Erie
USA spending grants for Erie have not yet been reviewed, please check back soon. Alternatively, why not search for other states, cities, or counties in the database.
Military equipment transfers
We were unable to locate any military equipment transfers for this location using the LESO Property Transferred to Participating Agencies database published by the Defense Logistics Agency. It is possible that this location has acquired military equipment for policing via other sources or programs.
Local police misconduct data, consent decrees, and settlements
Data last updated November 17, 2025
Settlements
We identified 1 publicly reported settlement that resulted in $37,000.00 in monetary compensation to victims.
| Year | Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 |
In January 2023, the City of Erie, Pennsylvania, agreed to a $37,000 settlement with Lee McLaurin to resolve a federal lawsuit alleging excessive force during his arrest on November 23, 2019. Surveillance video from outside the bar Sophia’s Tavern showed an Erie Police officer punching McLaurin in the head multiple times during the arrest, which also involved four other Erie Police officers and a county detective. McLaurin, who is Black, claimed that the officers used excessive force and that the City fostered “a culture of a lack of accountability” by failing to discipline those involved. Although the video sparked public outcry and calls for reform—including demands for a civilian review board—none of the officers faced criminal charges or disciplinary action. |
Compensation
$37,000.00 |