Erika Shields Named New Atlanta Police Chief

December 2,2016

Source: Maria Saporta, Atlanta Business Chronicle

"Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed on Thursday named Deputy Police Chief Erika Shieldsthe city’s next police chief.

The mayor thanked Police Chief George Turner, who announced Wednesday his plan to retire at the end of the year after 35 years with the department.

Reed said he decided to not have a formal search for police chief because he felt the talent for the job existed within the department -- thanks to the leadership that Turner provided the city.

“I know I had complete confidence in Chief Turner,” Reed said. “My preference would have been for him to be with me til the very end. We did not have 90 days to spend on a search. And we should be training and hiring from within.”

The mayor said all the finalists he considered were with APD, and he noted Shields stood out among several strong candidates.

“I’m very fortunate I have been here almost 21 years,” Shields said, adding she closely studied Turner’s leadership for the last eight years. “I know the APD is made up of exceptional men and women.”"