Pamela Smith chosen as DC police chief amidst rising crime.
Pamela Smith Becomes Washington’s First Black Female Police Chief
Pamela Smith has been appointed as Washington’s next police chief, making history as the first black woman to hold this role in the district. With over 25 years of law enforcement experience, Smith is well-equipped to take on the top position in the Metropolitan Police Department.
The department faces the challenging task of combating crime in the district, amidst ongoing efforts to reduce overall crime rates through legislative tactics.
A Trailblazing Career
Prior to her appointment as Washington police chief, Smith served as the chief of police for the United States Park Police. She has held various positions in law enforcement, including training, leading patrol teams, and handling disciplinary matters, in cities such as San Francisco, Washington, and New York.
In May 2022, Smith joined the Washington police as the department’s first chief equity officer, where she quickly made a significant impact. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser praised Smith as a respected leader with a strong commitment to enhancing the safety of the district.
“She knows Washington, D.C., she knows MPD, she knows policing, and she understands very well the network of law enforcement and public safety teams that work to keep Washington, D.C., safe. And as we know, she is resilient and ready for this role,” Bowser stated at a news conference.
Smith’s appointment is the result of a nationwide search conducted by Mayor Bowser after the retirement of former Police Chief Robert Contee. She will be replacing interim chief Ashan Benedict.
Smith expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, ”I believe that all things are possible.” She emphasized bringing a fresh perspective, a different kind of energy, and a heightened level of passion to her new position.
Addressing Rising Crime Rates
As the new police chief, Smith faces the weighty responsibility of addressing the district’s increasing crime rates. The Council of the District of Columbia has been working to update public safety laws that have remained largely unchanged since 1901.
Recent statistics reveal the urgency of the situation. By June 7, Washington had already recorded over 100 homicides in the first six months of 2023, marking the earliest occurrence in two decades. Additionally, a report showed that 67% of people arrested by police officers in 2022 were not prosecuted by the U.S. attorney for Washington.
Efforts to combat crime have led to the passing of an emergency public safety bill by the Council of the District of Columbia. This bill introduces new offenses for firing a gun in public and facilitates the extradition of individuals for misdemeanors. Notably, it also enables judges to hold individuals with a history of violent crimes in jail pending trial.
While the district’s law that would have reduced penalties for certain crimes was overturned by Congress and President Joe Biden, the police reform code, which prohibits the use of neck restraints, increases access to body camera footage, and revises officer discipline procedures, remains in effect.
A Commitment to Community Safety
Smith acknowledges the pressing need to address violent crime in the district and is dedicated to making Washington, D.C., safer. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement and ensuring that the police uphold constitutional rights while maintaining safety and respect.
“As a law enforcement officer and a member of this community, I am also troubled by the crime that is plaguing our community, which is why it is important for me to be engaged and wanting to make the District of Columbia safer,” Smith stated.
She concludes by affirming her unwavering focus on tackling crime and doing everything possible to ensure the safety and well-being of the district’s residents.
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