In a move that marks a significant milestone for the Indianapolis police force, Mayor Joe Hogsett announced the appointment of a new leader for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). Veteran officer Tanya Terry is set to take the helm as the first female permanent Chief of Police in the department’s history, bringing her 27 years of experience to the forefront of city law enforcement.
Terry previously served as Deputy Chief of Operations, overseeing data-driven initiatives under Mayor Hogsett's Gun Violence Reduction Strategy. According to the City of Indianapolis, these efforts helped reduce criminal homicides and non-fatal shootings by 44% over the past four years.
Terry also helped expand the IMPD's Juvenile Diversion Program citywide, guiding youth toward resources and support rather than arrest to promote a more positive future.
According to the City of Indianapolis, Mayor Joe Hogsett praised Terry’s leadership, saying, “When it comes to the safety and security of Indianapolis, few have spent as many waking hours dedicated to our city as Tanya.” He credited her past roles as District Commander and Deputy Chief of Operations for helping reduce criminal homicides to an eight-year low and expressed confidence she will continue advancing public safety.
Chief Terry's appointment is slated for effect come February 2, 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter for IMPD under her guidance.
