The article, based on materials from the Central State Archive of St. Petersburg (TsGA SPb) and the Central State Archive of Historical and Political Documents of St. Petersburg (TsGAIPD SPb), analyzes the daily needs and systemic problems of Leningrad police force in 1928–1934. We highlight the funds of TsGA SPb that contain information about various types of supplies for police officers. In the files of the Central State Archive of St. Petersburg Police Department, a large amount of statistical data on the service of police officers has been identified (social status, duration of service, Communist Party membership, data on dismissals or penalties for various violations both during and outside of service). Among the identified problems, we highlight the following: insufficient resources, understaffing, poor training and education of employees, limited office spaces, etc. It should be noted that the problems discussed were widespread, although here they are presented on the example of the functioning of specific units of Leningrad militia. They were systemic in nature and could not be completely resolved. They resulted from ill-conceived and often hasty socio-economic policies implemented with limited resources. The authorities employed a variety of methods to address these challenges. Various political educational programs were conducted for the officers, but they did not have a significant impact on discipline.