Outgoing New Orleans Police Chief Michael Harrison appeared on the WWL's Newell Normand show today. The chief said much thought went into his decision to leave New Orleans to take the top cop job in Baltimore.
"You know, I was looking at my past, my present and then now my future. It's what caused me to reconsider and then to say yes to it. It's an opportunity and a challenge."
The chief noted the progress the NOPD has made during his time here with the force.
"In 2012, the DOJ referred to us as the most troubled, or the worst, department in America. And now, departments are hiring talent from that department to go and help other departments. I think that speaks volumes for us, and I'm honored to be a part of that transformation.
The chief said his departure actually speaks well of the current law enforcement situation here in the city he leaves behind.
"Now, people can say, 'Yes, New Orleans has produced the kind of talent that can go anywhere in the country and help anybody, and turn other departments around like we did here in New Orleans.'"
Harrison leaves the NOPD after 28 years of service to take the job of Police Commissioner in Baltimore.