CLEVELAND — There's a new chief in town...
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy "Annie" Todd was officially sworn in during a ceremony at City Hall shortly after 11:30 a.m. Thursday.
“I believe she’s going to set our division up to be one of the smartest, toughest, most future-oriented police departments across the country," said Mayor Justin Bibb just moments before administering the oath of office.
In brief comments after she was sworn in, Chief Todd took a moment to reflect on her career.
“I started my journey with the Division of Police in the late ‘90s as a traffic controller. I was a single mom at the time, and my daughter was around 6 years old at that time. She has seen me through my entire career. She has been a part of this journey for me. I have to say that this one’s for you.”
Chief Todd said she looks forward to this role "and hope that I can bring your confidence in me as a leader."
Wayne Drummond, the outgoing police chief, was also sworn in Thursday morning as he begins his new role as the city’s interim safety director.
“His leadership and experience will keep the department running smoothly until we identify public safety’s next leader,” according to a previous press release.
He has served in the Cleveland Division of Police for more than 30 years.
These changes were announced late last week after city officials revealed that Director of Public Safety Karrie Howard was resigning from his position effectively immediately.
“We thank Chief Howard for his service and dedication to the City of Cleveland over the past four years,” according to the city’s press release.
RELATED: Cleveland Director of Public Safety Karrie Howard resigns, leading to changes in police leadership
You can learn more about Howard's resignation in the report below...
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