Full Breakdown
Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge Placed on Administrative Leave Amid Leadership Investigation
10/22/2025, 1:43:40 AM
Overview of the Leadership Change
Cincinnati City Manager Sheryl Long has placed Police Chief Teresa Theetge on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation into her leadership effectiveness. This decision comes in light of ongoing public safety challenges in the city, particularly following a series of violent incidents, including shootings in downtown Cincinnati. Assistant Chief Adam Hennie has been appointed as the interim chief during this transitional period.
Context of the Investigation
Theetge, who has served as chief since December 2022 and is the first woman to hold the position, has faced increasing scrutiny regarding her handling of crime in the city. The internal investigation was prompted by concerns over her leadership effectiveness, particularly as violent crime rates have persisted despite her previous commitments to address these issues. City Manager Long emphasized the need for stability at the command level, stating, “The City continues to face serious public safety challenges that underscore the need for stability at the command level.”
Official Statements & Responses
City Manager Sheryl Long expressed confidence in Interim Chief Hennie, stating, “I have full confidence in Interim Chief Hennie and the department’s command staff to continue their dedicated work at this time.” Mayor Aftab Pureval also supported the decision, asserting that the safety of residents remains the administration's top priority. In contrast, Theetge's attorney, Steve Imm, criticized the decision as "hasty and unlawful," claiming that Theetge was devastated by the news and that the city has no legitimate cause for her removal.
Criticism & Opposition
The decision to place Theetge on leave has drawn criticism from various quarters. Imm described the move as politically motivated, suggesting that Theetge is being used as a "political scapegoat." He indicated that the timing of the decision, coinciding with upcoming elections, raises questions about the motivations behind it. Additionally, Fraternal Order of Police President Ken Kober stated that replacing the chief would not resolve the city's violence issues, advocating instead for independent leadership free from political influence.
The Role of Interim Chief Adam Hennie
Adam Hennie, a 26-year veteran of the Cincinnati Police Department, has stepped into the role of interim chief. Recently promoted to assistant chief, Hennie has been vocal about addressing crime in the downtown area. His leadership will be critical as the department navigates this period of uncertainty. Long has expressed confidence in Hennie's ability to maintain stability and uphold the department's standards of service.
What's Next
A press conference is scheduled for Tuesday morning, where Theetge's legal team will address the situation further. The outcome of the internal investigation will determine the future of Theetge's position and the direction of the Cincinnati Police Department moving forward.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The City continues to face serious public safety challenges that underscore the need for stability at the command level.” — Sheryl Long, Cincinnati City Manager
- “In fact, the city does not even claim to have cause for removing her from her job,” — Steve Imm, Theetge's Attorney
- “Placing Chief Theetge on leave doesn't solve a damn thing,” — Ken Kober, Fraternal Order of Police President
This leadership change marks a significant moment for the Cincinnati Police Department as it grapples with ongoing public safety concerns and seeks to restore community trust.
