Teresa Theetge will be Cincinnati's first female police chief. City Manager Sheryl Long announced her choice Wednesday after a months-long national search.
Theetge has been serving as interim chief since Chief Eliot Isaac retired earlier this year. She was also one of four finalists for the permanent job.
"I have full faith that she is the best person for the job," Long said in a statement. "I have seen firsthand her deliberate decision-making, her effectiveness in engaging with our citizens, the depth of her knowledge on cutting-edge policing techniques, and her prioritization of equity and fairness."
Theetge has worked with Cincinnati Police for over 30 years, most recently as assistant police chief. She participated in several public forums during the hiring process, along with the three other finalists.
"Hearing the questions and feedback from the community and from our officers reinforced what a special place Cincinnati is, and I want everyone to know these conversations will continue," Long said.
More information is expected in a formal announcement later this week.
Theetge released a statement Wednesday afternoon:
"I have always been proud to call Cincinnati home. Cincinnati is where I was raised, where my husband and I raised our children, and the place where my children now raise our grandchildren. Cincinnati is the city I took an oath to protect and serve more than three decades ago.
"Throughout my journey at the Cincinnati Police Department, I envisioned myself leading this department one day. But as time passed, I also saw an opportunity to change the status quo, and start a trend that I anticipate will continue, a woman at the helm of one of our nation’s best police departments. I am the first, but I guarantee, I will not be the last female Chief this department sees.
"I do not take this appointment by City Manager Long lightly, with this title comes great responsibility. As the department’s leader, it is my responsibility to make sure our incredible officers are motivated, inspired to embrace the communities we serve, and are equipped with the best training opportunities and officer wellness offerings. Additionally, it is my responsibility to hold this department accountable for its actions and to grow from past mistakes.
As your Police Chief, I am committed to providing safety and protection to all our residents, stakeholders, and guests. We’ve all fought so hard to build a strong relationship between the community and police and this will remain at the forefront of our agenda. I understand the power of partnerships and how we can’t move forward without community collaboration.
"You have my word; I will never stray from my deep commitment to both the Cincinnati Police Department and the citizens of Cincinnati. It is my goal as your Chief of Police to make you feel safe and love the city where you live, work, and play so you can be proud to tell folks, I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio."
