Commonwealth Policy Center

Louisville Metro Police Department has a new chief, and her task is daunting. Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel was LMPD’s interim chief until two weeks ago, when Mayor Craig Greenberg selected her to permanently remain in the position. The department is in turmoil: it’s facing a Justice Department investigation, skyrocketing violence, and an officer shortage. Greenberg’s decision to keep finalists’ names private until the new chief’s selection was also unpopular. Law enforcement officers do a great service when they exercise their authority to preserve order and the common good. But the public benefits when the hiring process for top law enforcement is transparent Top leaders like Mayor Greenberg and the new LMPD police chief benefit when they prove themselves trustworthy and accountable. In the meantime, we should pray for our leaders, including the the new police chief, as they work to keep us safe.