City of Albuquerque Launches Nationwide Search for APD Chief

Oct. 5, 2020

Mayor Tim Keller announced today that the City has launched a national search for the next Chief of Police for the Albuquerque Police Department. The search, expected to take place over the next several months, puts an emphasis on community input and the police reform process that has made major steps forward under the administration. The top priority remains fighting violent crime while continuing the big drops in non-violent crime the City has seen over the last three years.

“Fighting violent crime remains our top priority, and the goal of this search is finding a Chief to lead that fight, to lean into the DOJ reform process, and to continue to build the ranks throughout the department. Like our city, our police department is very unique; so it’s important we take our time, hear from as many residents as possible about the experiences and qualities they think are important to this role, and find the right person for the job,” said Mayor Tim Keller.

The administration is bringing a specialist onboard to support in the national search and serve as the point of contact for potential applicants in the law enforcement community. Herb Crosby is the owner of AVTEC, Inc., an Albuquerque consulting firm. Crosby has a long background in both the private and public sector and has taught undergraduate and graduate courses at the Anderson School of Business and Management and the Department of Public Administration at the University of New Mexico.

“As an involved member of my community, I know how important it is to get this right. My goal in coming on board is to find the best possible candidate. Input from the public will be instrumental in choosing someone who is ready to face the department’s challenges head on, while remaining in step with our community,” said Herb Crosby.

The City is forming a search committee of City and community leaders who will consolidate input and initially vet candidates. The City will announce a schedule for community input sessions in the coming weeks where residents, advocates, organizations and businesses can voice their opinions. Community input can also be submitted now at [email protected].

The job posting can be viewed here. Prospective applicants can also reach out with questions to [email protected].