PHX Reporter

Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton announced the recruiting of Michael Sullivan as interim police chief on Friday, following current police Chief Jeri Williams' announcement to City Council that she intends to retire after more than 30 years in law enforcement.  

Sullivan currently works for the Baltimore Police Department as the deputy commissioner of the Compliance Bureau. As interim chief, Sullivan will be expected to lead Phoenix Police as the Department of Justice conducts a civil pattern or practice investigation into the department.

“In the search for an interim police chief, it was my priority to identify a leader with the qualifications to guide the department through the DOJ investigation and propel the department forward,” Barton said. "[Sullivan's] experience working in collaboration with communities, the DOJ, federal court and more gives me confidence he has the experience necessary to step into the interim Phoenix police chief role during this important time.”

Sullivan is expected to serve as interim chief for approximately 12 to 24 months. During this time, the city will conduct a thorough, nationwide search for a permanent police chief. 

“I am committed to providing transparent and inclusive public engagement in the search for a permanent chief,” Barton said. “Input from our community, officers, elected officials and labor groups will be critical to the selection process.”