Andre Anderson, Interim Police Chief for the City of Ferguson Police Department, submitted his resignation effective December 2. Anderson was appointed by Interim City Manager Ed Beasley to a six month contract to implement long standing improvement in the Ferguson Police Department.
“I am grateful for the opportunity that allowed me to serve as Interim Chief of the Ferguson Police Department,” said Anderson. “My number one goal when I arrived in Ferguson was to regain the trust of residents and the Police Department. Many of our policing initiatives that have been implemented over
the past few months will build a stronger relationship between the department and Ferguson residents.”
During his tenure, Anderson established the following initiatives:
? Implemented Problem Solving Meetings, where officers and community members utilize policing strategies to solve crimes.
? Implemented a Community Engagement Team.
? Implemented the Walk and Talk Program, where police officers openly converse with business owners and community members in to build stronger relationships.
? Created the Faith Based Alliance where local chaplains and pastors work together to ease tension in the community.
? Implemented Basic Leadership and Community Oriented Police Training.
? Secured $600,000 in donated funding from TASER International which will support the
Ferguson Police Department’s transparency efforts. The initiative will allow officers to participate in new and innovative technology methods, have access to advanced body cameras and electronic record keeping systems and provide officers with options to
utilize less lethal ways to address potential encounters.
“I believe the Ferguson Police Department has made significant gains that can model policing
tactics across nation,” added Anderson.
“We respect Chief Anderson’s decision and appreciate the exceptional and innovative work he has
done for the City of Ferguson and our Police Department,” said Mayor James Knowles III. “He has been a valuable member of our team and we wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Prior to heading the Ferguson Police Department, Anderson took a leave of absence from the Glendale, Arizona Police Department where he served as a commander. He will resume that position upon his departure.
A nationwide search for a permanent Police Chief will begin immediately.