Interim Chief Jordan to Head Oakland Police Department

By: Ja'Mein Beale - Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:59:18 -0800

OAKLAND (KRON)--Oakland police Chief Howard Jordan will now head the city's police department on a permanent basis.

Jordan, who was tapped to act as interim chief in October following the sudden resignation of former Chief Anthony Batts, has worked with the department for more than 20 years, having worked as a patrol officer, field supervisor and with the department's SWAT team.

“This is an exciting day for Oakland and an important step in providing the highest level of public safety service to our community. I have worked with Police Chief Howard Jordan for over 20 years. Chief Jordan’s commitment to reducing crime and improving safety through constitutional policing, community policing and improving relationships with Oakland’s youth has already made a difference in our city,” said Mayor Quan. “I have very high expectations for his leadership and his plans for reforms and refocusing the department. I am very happy to remove the word ‘Interim’ from his title.”

Jordan served as assistant chief when Batts took over the post in August 2009. Batts cites his limited control but full accountability for Oakland's high crime rate as reasons for his abrupt departure.

City officials on Wednesday also named Teresa Reed of the San Jose Fire Department as Oakland's new fire chief.

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