CHICAGO – Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson on Tuesday announced that Chief Fred Waller, former chief of patrol for the Chicago Police Department, will be appointed to serve as Interim Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department effective May 15.
“Chief Waller has dedicated his career to serving the people of Chicago at virtually every level of the Chicago Police Department from patrol officer to third in command. He has the vision, experience, and integrity to lead the department through this pivotal time as we build a safer, stronger Chicago,” said Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson. “Chief Waller is the right choice to lead CPD because his deep commitment to accountability, collaboration, and excellence will set the tone for the entire force over this crucial interim period. I look forward to working closely with him to execute a public safety plan that reduces crime and invests in people and communities.”
“I’m honored to be selected as the Interim Superintendent for the Chicago Police Department and am ready to lead the department through this crucial moment. After listening to Mayor-elect Johnson’s comprehensive vision for public safety, I knew this was the right moment to come out of retirement,” said Chief Fred Waller. “After 34 years in the Chicago Police Department, I understand firsthand the sacrifices that our officers make everyday to keep the city safe. I am committed to providing the resources, direction, and training our officers need to do their jobs: respectful, constitutional, and effective policing. And I am committed to working with Mayor-elect Johnson and other key stakeholders across Chicago to make our streets safer and our communities stronger.”
Waller spent 34 years in the Chicago Police Department, serving as Chief of Patrol, the third-highest post within the department. Prior to serving as Chief of Patrol, he was a district commander and patrol officer.
During the mayoral transition period, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has held a number of forums to provide the opportunity for the public to give feedback on the next full-term CPD superintendent.