After a lengthy interview process, Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam is reaching out to Philadelphia to hire the capital city’s new police chief.
The mayor announced Friday that he’s nominating Tyrell McCoy, 36, for the top job. McCoy is a captain in the Command Inspections Bureau at the Philadelphia Police Dept.
McCoy previously served as commanding officer of Philadelphia’s 9th District, home to more than 180 thousand residents.
In a press release, Mayor Arulampalam said, “(McCoy’s) extensive experience, commitment to community engagement, and innovative approach to public safety make him the ideal leader for our police department.”
Cpt. McCoy said, "I am honored and excited to serve as Hartford's new Chief of Police. I look forward to working closely with the dedicated men and women of the Hartford Police Department and engaging with our community members to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Together, we will build on the department's strengths and implement innovative strategies to address the challenges facing our city."
The mayor tells WTIC that McCoy was somewhat of a prodigy coming up in the Philadelphia PD:
“He started policing at a young age, right out of high school and was very quickly picked up as a rising star. By 21, he was sergeant. By 26, he was lieutenant. By 29, he was captain of a division that’s about 50 percent larger than the population of the city of Hartford.”
“He has gotten rave reviews from his time in the Philadelphia Police Department… He’s somebody who really understands the impact of community-based policing and personal relationships that can be built between the community and cops. He also understands the ways that police departments need to evolve in the 21st Century and smart policing tactics… He’s somebody who I think will bring a really innovative, fresh approach while also really having the humility to understand and listen to the police in our department and the residents in our community.”
McCoy holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Holy Family University and a master’s in the same topic from Eastern University. Both schools are located in Philadelphia.
McCoy replaces Jason Thody. Arulampalam thanked interim chief Kenny Howell for his service.
The City Council will consider the appointment at its meeting on Feb. 10.