Detroit Chief James Craig to Highlight Enforcement Initiatives

The public is invited to the 7:30 p.m. event Tuesday, November 18, sponsored by the Eastside Republican Club at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial.

“I know our community is eager to learn more about his latest east side police initiative, Operation Peace Keeper,” said club chairman Ken Chadwell.

“It is encouraging to see chief Craig building a spirit of collaboration and improved communication with Detroit businesses, community groups and neighborhood volunteers. He is improving the safety for both Detroit citizens and visitors.”

Detroit Roots
Craig began his law enforcement career in 1977 with the Detroit Police Department assigned to the 10th Precinct.

Later, as the result of DPD layoffs, Craig relocated to Los Angeles, where he began with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in 1981. After serving in patrol and investigative positions, Craig was promoted to sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. During his tenure as an LAPD command officer, responsibilities included some of Los Angeles’ most violent areas where crime reductions were achieved through implementation of innovative strategy and community partnerships.

Portland, Maine
After his 28-year LAPD career, Craig was appointed chief of Portland, Maine, police in 2009. There, Craig commanded 215 sworn and civilian employees. He was credited with reducing violent crime by 10% utilizing a comprehensive CompStat process focused on command accountability and problem solving. He also enhanced policing by developing a Chief’s Community Advisory Board. This board redefined community partnership, and improved relationships between police and residents.

Cincinnati to Detroit
In 2011, Craig was selected the 13th police chief of Cincinnati. He became the first African-American and first from outside of Cincinnati to hold the position. There he led 1,500 sworn officers and civilians. Craig immediately facilitated organizational changes, emphasizing improving service delivery and effectiveness. Under Craig’s leadership, rank and file morale was improved leading to increased productivity and performance. Craig prioritized proactively addressing neighborhood quality of life issues, as well as overall crime in the community.

On July 1, 2013, Craig returned to Detroit as chief of the Detroit Police Department where he leads a department of 2,800 sworn and civilian personnel.

Chief Craig has said that his top priorities are to reduce violent crime and increase morale.

Craig earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from West Coast University, a master of management degree in public administration from University of Phoenix, and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy.