Story perspectives

Cincinnati Police Chief Placed on Leave Amid Crime Concerns

10/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge has been placed on paid administrative leave amid concerns about leadership effectiveness and rising crime.
City Manager Sheryl Long announced the decision.
Assistant Chief Adam Hennie will serve as interim chief.
Mayor Aftab Pureval expressed support for Long's decision and the administration's commitment to safety.
Theetge's attorney criticized the action as politically motivated, and a press conference is set for Tuesday.

History

Historical Context

The Black Lives Matter movement, ignited by police violence incidents like the 2014 shooting of Tamir Rice, has prompted significant scrutiny of law enforcement practices in the U.S. In 2020, Cincinnati's Mayor Aftab Pureval suspended Police Chief Teresa Theetge amid rising crime rates, reflecting ongoing tensions between police and community expectations, and highlighting the need for reform in policing policies.

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Story summary

The Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge has been placed on paid administrative leave amid concerns about leadership effectiveness and rising crime.
City Manager Sheryl Long announced the decision.
Assistant Chief Adam Hennie will serve as interim chief.
Mayor Aftab Pureval expressed support for Long's decision and the administration's commitment to safety.
Theetge's attorney criticized the action as politically motivated, and a press conference is set for Tuesday.

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