The Minneapolis City Council on Thursday voted in favor of appointing Brian O'Hara as the next chief of the Minneapolis Police Department marking the first time an outsider has led the department in 16 years.
O'Hara, 43, comes to Minneapolis after working as a deputy mayor of police services in Newark, New Jersey, replaces former chief Medaria Arradondo who retired earlier this year.
O'Hara joined News Talk 830 WCCO last month after receiving the nomination from Mayor Frey, talking about his plan of attack if he was appointed by the city council and his experience for the position.
“Newark is a different city from Minneapolis, but certainly it’s similar in very important ways,” O’Hara said on WCCO Radio.. “The same challenges that are most affecting the residents of this community. Newark is a place that has historically dealt with serious problems around gun violence, and has also deal with serious issues around police-community relations. I think the story of Newark over the last five years is that you can address both of those issues. You don’t have to choose between focusing on addressing and protecting people’s human rights. You can do that and address serious crime in a meaningful, impactful way.”
Thursday's vote to appoint O'Hara was unanimous and Councilmember Lisa Goodman spoke after the vote, saying she thinks O'Hara was the right man for the job.
"I do think that you are the right person at this moment for this position. This community holds incredible hope for you and this department. The moment is heavy, not celebratory, because we know there is much work to be done."
O'Hara spoke after the vote saying that he was thankful for the support of the council and the community. He will begin his work as the police chief immediately.
"I'm incredibly humbled," O'Hara said. "I'm honored and grateful to be here and just incredibly thankful to you all."
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