As the Chief of the Seattle Police Department it is my responsibility to make tough decisions to help guide this department toward progress and constitutional policing.
I understand that the personnel decisions that I made last week regarding two assistant chiefs have not come without controversy.
In the past, some leaders in this department have faced criticism for failing to make difficult decisions. I do not wish for this department to be viewed as one afraid of change and progress, and I believe that the decisions announced last week were necessary and correct.
It is my job to ensure that this department has the leadership it needs and deserves and our department has the right leaders in the right places working toward reform and improvement.
I am dedicated to preventing bias within our department and have made sure that SPD is supportive and fully participates in the city wide Race and Social Justice Initiative.