Detroit, Michigan, December 18, 2025
Mayor-elect Mary Sheffield has confirmed the reappointment of Todd Bettison as Police Chief of Detroit. His leadership has led to a significant reduction in violent crime, including a 50% decrease in nonfatal shootings and a 71% drop in carjackings. Bettison’s extensive experience with the Detroit Police Department, including roles as First Assistant Chief and Deputy Mayor, has positioned him as a trusted leader in maintaining public safety in the city.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison to Continue Under Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield’s Administration
Detroit, Michigan – Mayor-elect Mary Sheffield has announced the reappointment of Todd Bettison as the city’s Police Chief, citing significant reductions in violent crime during his tenure.
Key Points
- Reappointment Announcement: Mayor-elect Sheffield has confirmed that Todd Bettison will remain as Detroit’s Police Chief under her administration.
- Crime Reduction Achievements: Under Bettison’s leadership, nonfatal shootings decreased by 50% between 2022 and 2024, and carjackings fell by 71% since 2015.
- Career Background: Bettison served 27 years with the Detroit Police Department, retiring as First Assistant Chief before becoming Deputy Mayor in 2022. He was appointed interim Police Chief in October 2024 and confirmed as permanent Chief in February 2025.
Details of the Announcement
Mayor-elect Sheffield emphasized the importance of public safety, stating that Bettison’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering trust within the community and among law enforcement peers.
Background on Todd Bettison
Bettison’s extensive career with the Detroit Police Department included rapid promotions from patrol officer to First Assistant Chief. His tenure as Deputy Mayor involved overseeing multiple departments, including the Detroit Fire Department and Emergency Management. In October 2024, he was appointed interim Police Chief following the resignation of Chief James White.
Impact on Detroit’s Crime Rates
Since Bettison’s appointment as interim Police Chief, Detroit has seen a 41% drop in homicides and a 50% reduction in non-fatal shootings. These improvements are attributed to strategic partnerships and targeted policing efforts.
Conclusion
The decision to retain Todd Bettison as Police Chief reflects a commitment to maintaining effective leadership and continuing the progress made in reducing crime in Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Todd Bettison?
Todd Bettison is the current Police Chief of Detroit, with a 27-year career in the Detroit Police Department, including roles as First Assistant Chief and Deputy Mayor. He was appointed interim Police Chief in October 2024 and confirmed as permanent Chief in February 2025.
What are Todd Bettison’s achievements as Police Chief?
Under Bettison’s leadership, Detroit experienced a 50% reduction in nonfatal shootings between 2022 and 2024, and carjackings decreased by 71% since 2015. These improvements are attributed to strategic partnerships and targeted policing efforts.
Why was Todd Bettison reappointed as Police Chief?
Mayor-elect Mary Sheffield reappointed Bettison due to his effective leadership and the significant decline in violent crime during his tenure. Bettison’s ability to foster trust within the community and among law enforcement peers was also a key factor in the decision.
What is Todd Bettison’s background in law enforcement?
Bettison served 27 years with the Detroit Police Department, rising from patrol officer to First Assistant Chief. He also served as Deputy Mayor in 2022 before being appointed interim Police Chief in October 2024 and confirmed as permanent Chief in February 2025.
What impact has Todd Bettison had on Detroit’s crime rates?
Since Bettison’s appointment as interim Police Chief, Detroit has seen a 41% drop in homicides and a 50% reduction in non-fatal shootings. These improvements are attributed to strategic partnerships and targeted policing efforts.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reappointment Announcement | Mayor-elect Sheffield reappointed Todd Bettison as Detroit’s Police Chief, citing significant crime reductions under his leadership. |
| Crime Reduction Achievements | Under Bettison’s leadership, nonfatal shootings decreased by 50% between 2022 and 2024, and carjackings fell by 71% since 2015. |
| Career Background | Bettison served 27 years with the Detroit Police Department, retiring as First Assistant Chief before becoming Deputy Mayor in 2022. He was appointed interim Police Chief in October 2024 and confirmed as permanent Chief in February 2025. |
| Impact on Detroit’s Crime Rates | Since Bettison’s appointment as interim Police Chief, Detroit has seen a 41% drop in homicides and a 50% reduction in non-fatal shootings, attributed to strategic partnerships and targeted policing efforts. |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
