Top cop Larry Snelling confirmed as Police Superintendent

The Chicago City Council has unanimously confirmed Larry Snelling as the new Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). A native of Englewood and a graduate of Chicago Public Schools, Snelling began his career with the CPD in 1992 as a patrol officer. Snelling previously served as the Chief of the Bureau of Counterterrorism.

In a statement, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his confidence in Snelling's leadership and ability to improve public safety in the city. “I’m grateful for the City Council’s confirmation of Superintendent Larry Snelling today, marking a step forward in our journey to create a better, stronger, safer Chicago,” said Johnson.

Mayor Johnson praised Snelling's experience and respect among his peers, stating that through a collaborative approach with the new Superintendent and other stakeholders, they can develop strategies to address community needs and enhance public safety throughout Chicago.

“In order to continue to make progress as a department, we must embrace innovation and partnership, continue to strengthen morale, and go further in strengthening bonds of trust between police and community,” said Snelling in a statement. He pledged to work closely with Mayor Johnson and the government to enhance safety for all Chicagoans.

Snelling holds a bachelor's degree in adult education from DePaul University and has been integral in redesigning the CPD's training model around national best practices and constitutional policing. Among his other accomplishments, he was a lead trainer for field force training during the 2012 Chicago NATO Summit.

Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood expressed excitement at Snelling taking the helm of the CPD and praised his unwavering commitment to community safety. Anthony Driver, President of the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA), also endorsed Snelling's ability to navigate challenges and lead an era of reform for the police department.

The confirmation follows a months-long search and selection process led by the CCPSA, ultimately resulting in Snelling's unanimous appointment as the Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.