NEW ORLEANS — Anne Kirkpatrick, the former leader of police departments in Oakland, California and Spokane, Washington has been selected as the finalist for NOPD superintendent and will be presented to the city council for confirmation, Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced Monday.
"Following an extensive, nationwide search, I am grateful that Anne Kirkpatrick has accepted the opportunity to lead the New Orleans Police Department and continue improving our city’s public safety through a collaborative, holistic approach," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “With over 35 years of experience in law enforcement, coupled with 20 years of leading police departments of even larger municipalities, Kirkpatrick has proven that she is more than capable and has what it takes to now lead the world-class NOPD."
Kirkpatrick was chosen over two other candidates, including the person believed to have been the frontrunner for some time, interim superintendent Michelle Woodfork. Cantrell said that Woodfork would stay on as interim chief while the city council process plays out - until Sept. 22. After that date, Kirkpatrick will take over as interim, but Woodfork will remain in a leadership position.
Cantrell said Kirkpatrick has 35 years with the badge and 20 as a police chief.
"Kirkpatrick has a proven track record across a diverse number of jurisdictions for transforming police departments and reducing violent crime," said the news release from the city.
“It is my honor to be the selected candidate to be the next Superintendent of Police for a world-class city and police department,” said Kirkpatrick. “I look forward to the next phase in the process and commit to being fully transparent.
The city council, which had sought and received the ability to approve major city appointments, has voiced concern over the transparency of the process to date, but Council-At-Large member Helena Moreno said she is ready for the process to be turned over to the council.
"I look forward to learning more about Anne Kirkpatrick, her previous work, and most importantly, her plans to make the city of New Orleans safer and improve our NOPD.”
Councilman Oliver Thomas though, said he was "disappointed" as he was hoping for Woodfork to continue in the role.
Kirkpatrick said the police department and public want to know three things. Where are we going? How are we going to get there? What is my role?
"My number one mission is to keep you safe and well," she said.