COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther introduced his choice for the new Chief of Police on Wednesday--Elaine Bryant.
She will lead the department after serving in the Detroit Police Department for 21 years, most recently as Deputy Chief.
Bryant says she will emphasize youth programs in an effort to stem the tide of violence in the city, which is on pace to set another record for homicides in 2021.
Bryant did not have an exact start date for the job. Ginther acknowledged Bryant has 12 months to complete an OPOTA training program, to become a certified peace officer in Ohio.
She is the 1st black woman to lead the department, and the 1st from outside CPD ranks to take the job.
Bryant replaces Thomas Quinlan, who was demoted in January. Michael Woods has been serving as Interim Chief.