Minneapolis police chief resigns after scandal over sexual misconduct investigation
A report found that Brian O’Hara probably interfered with investigation in what mayor called a ‘breach of trust’
TL;DR
- Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigned after a report found probable interference with an investigation.
- Mayor Jacob Frey lost confidence in O’Hara due to a "breach of trust" after receiving the report.
- The investigation did not confirm allegations of improper sexual relationships but substantiated interference.
- Assistant Police Chief Katie Blackwell will serve as acting leader.
- O’Hara was appointed in 2022 to reform the department following the murder of George Floyd.
- The department faced a justice department investigation in 2023 that found patterns of excessive force and discrimination.
- O'Hara is credited with reversing resignations and heading off calls to disband the department.
- He was also a critic of federal immigration enforcement surges into Minneapolis.
- Despite previous praise from the mayor, Frey's recent comments highlighted a reversal in his stance.
- O'Hara's tenure saw an increase in officers, applications, and a reported decrease in crime.