The Minneapolis Police Department is setting a precedent by appointing two civilian bureau chiefs, a move that shakes up traditional police department structures. In a statement to the press, Police Chief Brian O’Hara announced Ayodele Famodu as Chief of the Internal Affairs Bureau and Ganesha Martin as Chief of the Constitutional Policing Bureau, marking the first time civilians have held these high-ranking positions within the MPD.
"These new leaders bring invaluable experience and expertise that will help guide our continued transformation as a forward-thinking, community-focused department," Chief O’Hara stated, according to a bulletin released by the City of Minneapolis. Famodu has a robust background in public service and law, while Martin is known for extensive experience in strategic leadership and policy development. According to the announcement, Famodu will oversee internal investigations, aiming to uphold high standards of accountability and transparency, while Martin will focus on constitutional policing and community engagement.
The appointments are part of the MPD's broader efforts to enhance oversight and forge stronger ties with the community. Famodu's legal expertise spans several roles, including that of an assistant attorney general and felony prosecutor. Martin previously held various influential positions in Baltimore, such as Chief of Staff to the Police Commissioner and Deputy Mayor of Public Safety and Emergency Management, guiding the Baltimore Police Department through a federal consent decree period from 2015 to 2018.
Alongside the historic civilian appointments, Chief O'Hara confirmed several internal promotions within MPD. Notable changes include Commander Rebecca Lane taking the helm of the Special Crimes Investigations Division (SCID), Lt. Paul Albers stepping up as Commander of the Intelligence Division, and Commander Rolf Markstrom leading the Force Investigations Team within Internal Affairs. Moreover, Lieutenant Renee Lewis has been promoted to Commander of the Inspections Unit, all changes reflecting a commitment "to building a stronger, more accountable department," as Chief O’Hara emphasized in the bulletin. The Chief expressed confidence in the new leadership's ability to serve the Minneapolis community with integrity and professionalism.
