Austin Gets a New Top Cop, But Is It Progress or More of the Same?

Lisa Davis Confirmed as Austin's Second Female Police Chief

Austin, TX — Lisa Davis, a veteran of the Cincinnati PD, has been confirmed as Austin's new police chief, making her the 11th person and only the second woman to hold the position permanently. In a special meeting on Tuesday, the City Council approved City Manager T.C. Broadnax's selection of Davis over Milwaukee's chief, Jeffrey Norman.

"I am honored to be selected as the next police chief of the Austin Police Department," said Davis. "I am committed to working with the community and the dedicated men and women of the department to address the public safety needs of Austin."

The confirmation brings to an end a year-long period without a permanent chief, following Joseph Chacon's retirement in August 2022. The process of finding a replacement, however, has been fraught with controversy, with residents criticizing the pool of applicants as weak, potentially due to Austin's troubled history with policing and recent budget cuts to the department.

A Department in Crisis

Davis steps into a role that is fraught with challenges. The Austin PD has been struggling with vacancies and low morale among its officers, as well as a lack of a long-term contract with the Austin Police Association. In response, Davis has pledged to listen to the concerns of both sworn and civilian staff and to be open and transparent in her leadership.

"My priority is to build trust and strengthen relationships with the community and our officers," Davis said. "I will be accessible and accountable to the people of Austin as we work together to make our city safer."

Background and Experience

A US Navy veteran, Davis began her career in law enforcement over 30 years ago in her hometown of Cincinnati. She has previously been a finalist for chief positions in Cincinnati and Oakland, and her appointment in Austin marks a step forward for women in leadership roles within the police force.

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