Pittsburgh’s search for a new police chief has taken an affirmative step forward, with Mayor Ed Gainey nominating Acting Chief Christopher Ragland to lead the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, according to a recent statement from the Mayor's Office. Mayor Gainey praised the acting chief's commitment to unbiased policing and respect for the community, highlighting Ragland’s understanding of operations to administration and his dedication to human and civil rights.

According to the City of Pittsburgh news release, Ragland, a veteran with over 30 years at the Bureau, stepped in as the acting chief following the exit of former Chief Larry Scirotto. He has been helping the position to enhance accountability, communication, and service, drawing from his comprehensive experience in various operational and strategic roles within the police force. His resume includes tenures as Commander of the Special Deployment Division (SDD), as well as leadership positions over Zones One, Three, and Six, coupled with work in the Office of Strategy, Accountability, and Resiliency, during which Ragland dedicated efforts to establish a relationship-based policing approach and to instrumental in securing funding for key community safety infrastructure.

His notable initiatives include creating a Youth Diversion Program in Zone One, which has continued to influence Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods positively, and serving as Co-Chair on the board of the Hear Foundation. This non-profit organization fosters collaboration between community leaders, the police, and residents to promote safe and vibrant communities.

The nomination will now undergo City Council scrutiny, with an upcoming interview and confirmation vote set to determine whether Acting Chief Ragland will indeed assume the permanent role.