After serving as the chief of the Chicago Police Department for nearly three years, Larry Snelling will retire on July 15. Snelling expressed gratitude for leading the department through significant events like the 2024 Democratic National Convention and achieving a notable decline in shootings and violent crime. He emphasized that the real credit belongs to the hard work of the Chicago Police Department members.
Snelling, aged 57, took charge of the department in August 2023 after a lengthy career, primarily as an instructor at the police academy. His leadership period saw a continued reduction in gun violence and increased compliance with a federal consent decree. Challenges included managing the department during a federal immigration crackdown.
“He is a Chicagoan through and through, and his career reflects a lifelong commitment to serving the city he has always called home.” — Mayor Brandon Johnson
Mayor Brandon Johnson praised Snelling’s commitment to community safety and announced Fred Waller, a CPD veteran, will be the interim superintendent. Waller previously served in this role before Snelling’s appointment. Snelling’s career began in the Englewood neighborhood, joining CPD in 1992 and ascending through various roles, including commander of the Englewood District and chief of counterterrorism.
During his tenure, Snelling faced national protests and local tensions, notably handling a protest at the Englewood District station peacefully, earning community respect. He succeeded David Brown and emphasized a collaborative approach to crime reduction, although this was tested during Operation Midway Blitz, a period marked by federal immigration enforcement tensions. Snelling highlighted the importance of communication with federal authorities and reiterated CPD’s commitment to responding to all emergencies, regardless of immigration status.
The department’s response during Midway Blitz drew criticism from community members who felt CPD supported federal agents. However, Snelling maintained the department’s role focused on ensuring safety and peace. Under his leadership, gun violence did decrease, although challenges like high-profile shootings and teen activities persisted. Snelling called for addressing root causes leading youth to violence, advocating for attention to victims and children to prevent crime escalation.
A seasoned instructor, Snelling’s expertise in use of force, firearms, and training was recognized, including testifying in high-profile legal cases. He was instrumental during events like the 2024 Democratic National Convention, praised for effective crowd management and de-escalation tactics.
“2024 is the new standard, and the men and women of the Chicago Police Department set that new standard out in the field.” — Larry Snelling
Snelling’s leadership coincided with relative labor peace, contributing to a new collective bargaining agreement providing officers a 20% raise over four years. This agreement introduced a legal debate over disciplinary procedures, but Snelling advocated for accountability in cases of misconduct, even challenging police board decisions when necessary.
Throughout his tenure, Snelling maintained a sometimes contentious relationship with COPA, critiquing the agency for speculative and punitive investigations. He passionately advocated for transparency within CPD, welcoming public discussion and critique to enhance the department’s operations.