Bill Peterson Named Interim Minneapolis Police Chief Following O’Hara Resignation

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has appointed Bill Peterson as interim chief of the Minneapolis Police Department following the resignation of former Chief Brian O’Hara.

Peterson, a 30-year veteran of the Minneapolis Police Department, previously served as Inspector of the First Precinct, overseeing public safety operations throughout downtown Minneapolis and several surrounding neighborhoods. City officials announced the appointment on June 2 and said Peterson will lead the department while a nationwide search for a permanent chief is conducted.

According to city officials, Peterson has held numerous leadership positions throughout his career, including assignments in patrol operations, violent crimes investigations, special operations, officer training, and precinct command. He also helped develop the department’s Crisis Intervention Training program and has supervised officers and future leaders across the agency.

Mayor Frey said Peterson’s experience and leadership make him the right choice to guide the department during the transition period. Officials say Peterson will focus on maintaining stability, supporting officers, continuing reform efforts, and strengthening community trust.

Peterson takes over leadership at a significant moment for the Minneapolis Police Department. His appointment comes just days after the resignation of Chief Brian O’Hara, whose departure followed findings that he interfered with an internal misconduct investigation. O’Hara resigned after Mayor Frey announced disciplinary action would be taken.

The Minneapolis Police Department continues to face major challenges, including ongoing reform efforts, rebuilding staffing levels, reducing violent crime, and improving relationships with communities across the city.

Peterson has previously helped lead the department’s response to major incidents, including the I-35W bridge collapse, the North Minneapolis tornado, civil unrest, and large-scale events such as Super Bowl LII and the MLB All-Star Game.

The City of Minneapolis has not announced a timeline for selecting a permanent chief, though officials say a national search is expected to begin in the coming months.