Chief Kirkpatrick: A Career in Law Enforcement Leadership
The trajectory of Chief Kirkpatrick's career is marked by a series of high-profile leadership roles across several major American cities. From her early days in patrol to becoming a trailblazer as the first female chief in multiple jurisdictions, her professional journey reflects a deep commitment to criminal justice—the system of practices and institutions concerned with crime for the purpose of preventing and punishing it.
Early Career and Foundational Experience
Kirkpatrick began her law enforcement journey with the Memphis Police Department. She later transitioned to Washington State, where she served as a police officer in Redmond. Beyond active duty, she contributed to the academic side of the field as a college instructor in criminal justice, bridging the gap between practical field experience and theoretical education.
Her rise into executive leadership was steady and significant. She served as the Chief of Police for five years in three different cities: Ellensburg, Federal Way, and Spokane. Following her retirement from the Spokane police force in 2012, she transitioned into a role as a leadership instructor for the FBI. Additionally, she spent two years as the Chief Deputy of the King County Sheriff's Office.
Leadership in Chicago and Oakland
In 2016, Kirkpatrick was a finalist for the position of Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. While she was not selected for the top spot, Mayor Rahm Emanuel appointed her as the Chief of the department's Bureau of Professional Standards.
Her tenure in Chicago was brief, lasting six months before Mayor Libby Schaaf appointed her as the Chief of Police for Oakland, California, on January 4, 2017. Sworn in on February 27, 2017, she made history as the city's first female Chief of Police.
However, her time in Oakland was fraught with controversy. In November 2017, Brian Hofer, chair of the privacy advisory commission, and seven others filed a complaint with the Citizens Police Review Board, alleging that Kirkpatrick had made false statements regarding a raid in West Oakland in August.
On February 20, 2020, the Oakland Police Commission voted unanimously to fire Kirkpatrick. Mayor Schaaf joined the decision, stating that trust in the Chief was "irrevocably broken." This led to a federal lawsuit filed by Kirkpatrick, who claimed her termination was retaliation for reports she made regarding the behavior of commissioners.
In May 2022, a jury ruled partially in her favor, noting evidence that retaliation played a role in her discharge. The jury awarded her one year's pay ($337,000). By July 2022, the City of Oakland agreed to a total settlement of $1.5 million, covering the award and her legal costs.
Superintendency in New Orleans
Kirkpatrick returned to a top leadership role in September 2023, when Mayor LaToya Cantrell appointed her as the interim superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department. Following confirmation by the city council, she was sworn in as the permanent superintendent on November 1, 2023, becoming the first permanent female superintendent in the city's history.
During her tenure in New Orleans, an incident occurred in August 2024, in which she struck two pedestrians with her vehicle while on duty.
Key Facts
- Firsts: First female Chief of Police in Oakland and first permanent female superintendent in New Orleans.
- Chief Roles: Served as Chief of Police in Ellensburg, Federal Way, and Spokane (5 years each).
- Federal Experience: Served as a leadership instructor for the FBI.
- Legal Outcome: Received a $1.5 million settlement from the City of Oakland following a retaliation lawsuit.
| Location/Organization | Role | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis Police Department | Officer | Career start |
| Ellensburg, Federal Way, Spokane | Chief of Police | 5 years in each city |
| FBI | Leadership Instructor | Post-retirement role (2012) |
| Chicago Police Department | Chief, Bureau of Professional Standards | Appointed by Mayor Rahm Emanuel |
| Oakland Police Department | Chief of Police | First female chief; terminated 2020 |
| New Orleans Police Department | Superintendent | First permanent female superintendent |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Chief Kirkpatrick begin her law enforcement career?
She began her career with the Memphis Police Department before moving to Washington State to serve as an officer in Redmond.
What historical milestones did she achieve in Oakland and New Orleans?
She was the first female Chief of Police in Oakland and the first permanent female superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department.
Why was she fired from the Oakland Police Department?
The Oakland Police Commission voted unanimously to fire her in February 2020, stating that their trust in her was "irrevocably broken."
What was the result of the lawsuit against the City of Oakland?
A jury found that retaliation played some role in her discharge. The City of Oakland eventually paid her a total of $1.5 million, which included one year's pay and legal costs.
What role did she hold with the FBI?
After retiring as the Chief of Police in Spokane in 2012, she became a leadership instructor for the FBI.