The Baltimore Police Department (BPD) is ushering in a new era as Ryan Lee steps in to fill the role of Chief of Detectives within the Operations Bureau. Lee, an industry veteran with over two decades under his belt, will now steer the detective unit after a laudable stint as the Chief of Police in Boise, Idaho. As the Baltimore Police Department's official news release reported, Lee carved a niche through his hiring, retention, and policy creation that resonated with the strategic goals in his previous post.
Police Commissioner Richard Worley publicly expressed his confidence in the appointment. “Chief Ryan Lee is an experienced leader, and we are grateful to have him serve with the Baltimore Police Department and City of Baltimore,” he noted, as detailed by the department's news release. Lee's task is a hefty one: sustaining the momentum of historic reductions in violent crime and mending the frayed relations with the communities BPD serves.
Lee's law enforcement journey started in 2000 when he joined the Portland Police Bureau as a patrol officer. His career trajectory is adorned with roles of increasing responsibility, from instructing in training to assisting the operations branch chief. Fast-forward to 2020, and his unanimous confirmation as Chief of Police in Boise further highlighted his leadership capabilities.
In addition to his front-line duties, Lee has contributed to law enforcement education as a consultant for organizations such as the National Tactical Officers Association and the Federal Protective Service. He's even shared his expertise in an academic setting at Portland State University and with the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training’s Center for Policing Excellence. Lee has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from California State University, Sacramento, and a master’s degree from Boston University in the same field.
Before Lee can assume the title of Colonel, he must meet the Maryland Police Training Commission's certification requirements, which he is currently completing. Lee and his wife are now residents of Baltimore City, embracing the community they are committed to serving.
