Police Chief James Craig of Cincinnati
Michigan Chronicle editor Bankole Thompson has mixed views about the expected appointment of Cincinnati Police Chief James Craig to lead Detroit's force.
It is refreshing to see someone like Craig optimistic about accepting a crucial position in Detroit. It will also be equally challenging to see how under his leadership this city can make evidence-based reforms and arrest crime.
But with an eye on November's mayoral election, Thompson wonders about any appointee's longevity in the high-turnover job. The headline above his commentary asks: "How long will new Detroit Police chief last?"
It is ridiculous that this city in the last four years has had four police chiefs, two of whom left in embarrassment after it was discovered they were having affairs with their subordinates. . . .
When I heard that another chief of police was being sought, my natural reaction was: “Again! Let’s see how long this new top cop will last,” because it is damaging for a department that is struggling with morale and cuts to its resources to have another chief who might possibly only last for no more than a year.
I’m not suggesting that Craig, if appointed, will last only a year. But it is logical that a new mayor will bring in a new chief. However, if Craig does an outstanding job that lifts the department from the current tide and tackles public safety in an effective fashion, he could stay on board with a new administration to ensure a smooth transition.
