FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Fort Wayne Police Department‘s new police chief will be a familiar face.
Mayor Tom Henry announced Thursday that current assistant police chief Steve Reed will be promoted on August 1 to police chief.
“Public safety is critical to the current and future success of Fort Wayne,” said Henry. “Steve is a true professional and a man of integrity who is ready for this leadership position. His communication skills and a commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone in our City are clear indications he is the right person to lead the Fort Wayne Police Department.”
Reed is a 23 year veteran of the department and has been assistant police chief since 2014.
“This is a tremendous honor to be asked to serve as police chief for the City of Fort Wayne,” said Reed. “The Fort Wayne Police Department’s commitment to being the very best will continue as we work together with residents, neighborhoods, businesses, and law enforcement agencies to ensure our community is as safe as possible. Open communication and innovative approaches to public safety will enhance our ability to meet the needs of our City.”
Henry announced in February that current police chief Garry Hamilton will step down to lead Fort Wayne Police Department’s new community relations division. He feels his abilities would be better used in that role than as police chief.
Hamilton became the first black police chief in the history of Fort Wayne when he took office in January 2014. He’s been with the department since 1994.
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