Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge has been temporarily relieved of her duties and placed on paid administrative leave as city officials initiate an internal review of her leadership capabilities. The decision comes in the wake of national attention regarding Theetge's handling of a racially charged downtown brawl in July that resulted in serious injuries to two white individuals, attacked by a black mob.
Assistant Chief Adam Hennie has been appointed to serve as interim chief, tasked with the responsibility of ensuring continuity and stability within the department during the period of investigation. This administrative action follows the indictment of seven individuals on charges including felonious assault and aggravated riot, related to the July incident that saw a woman, subsequently identified as Holly, suffer brain trauma and extensive bruising.
City Manager Sheryl Long has described the move as a necessary step to maintain steady leadership amid escalating safety concerns in the city. Long's statement, as reported by The Daily Caller, emphasized the city's commitment to upholding the highest standards of service for residents while ensuring departmental stability. "I have full confidence in Interim Chief Hennie and the command staff to continue their critical work at this time," Long stated.
Theetge has been under scrutiny not only for her response to the July brawl but also for her overall qualifications as chief. Critics have suggested that her appointment may have been unduly influenced by diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, with some labeling her a "DEI hire." Furthermore, a lawsuit filed by four former Cincinnati Police Department officers alleges discriminatory practices under Theetge's leadership. The plaintiffs, Capt. Robert Wilson and Lieutenants Patrick Caton, Gerald Hodges, and Andrew Mitchell, claim that white male officers were overlooked for promotions and assignments in favor of non-white and female colleagues, regardless of seniority or experience.
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of a surge in violent incidents in downtown Cincinnati, including multiple shootings and a fatality within a span of less than eight hours last week. In response to the city's escalating crime rates, Theetge controversially advised residents to "learn how to behave," a comment that has since fueled public backlash and intensified criticism of her approach to community safety.
Amidst the controversy, Theetge has enlisted the services of employment attorney Stephen Imm, signaling her intent to challenge or respond to the administrative review. Imm has characterized Theetge as a "political scapegoat" and "political pawn," revealing that she was asked to resign last week but was placed on leave upon refusal. "I’m afraid that they’re going to work very hard to see if they can’t dig up some dirt on this person that they’ve just removed from office without cause," Imm stated, as reported by WVXU.
Despite the unfolding events, Mayor Aftab Pureval has expressed support for the city manager's decision and confidence in the interim leadership. Experts point out that the situation highlights a growing divide between law enforcement leadership and the public's expectations for accountability. The administrative leave presents an opportunity for the city to evaluate the chief’s effectiveness, restore public confidence, and reinforce competent leadership during a time of heightened scrutiny and the need for experienced leadership to maintain public safety and morale within the police department.
