Louisville Names Paul Humphrey as New Permanent Police Chief

In a significant development for Kentucky's largest city, Paul Humphrey has been appointed as the permanent chief of the Louisville Metro Police Department. This decision, announced on September 16, 2024, marks a crucial step towards stabilizing leadership within the force.

Humphrey, a seasoned officer with nearly two decades of experience, has been serving as the interim chief since June 2023. His appointment comes after a period of frequent leadership changes, with Louisville having seen four interim chiefs since the tragic incident involving Breonna Taylor in 2020.

Mayor Craig Greenberg emphasized the need for stability in the department's leadership, stating, "Chief Humphrey is thoughtful, fair, and decisive. He has earned my respect, and he has earned the respect and trust of this community, including the hardworking men and women of the Louisville Metro Police Department."

Humphrey's journey with the department began in 2006 when he joined as a patrol officer. Over the years, he has held various positions, including SWAT team commander and training division chief. In 2022, he was appointed as deputy chief for accountability, a crucial role as the department faced a federal investigation following the Taylor incident.

The new chief expressed his commitment to the city, saying, "The sworn and professional staff of LMPD work tirelessly each day to make Louisville a safer city. It is a tremendous honor to serve our residents, business community, and visitors."

This appointment comes at a critical time for Louisville, a city of approximately 633,000 residents as of 2021. The police department, formed in 2003 after the merger of Jefferson County and Louisville, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including nationwide protests and calls for reform following the Breonna Taylor case.

Humphrey's appointment also follows the suspension of former Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel in June 2023, less than a year after she became the first Black woman to lead the department in a non-interim position. The suspension was related to her handling of a sexual harassment claim within the department.

As Humphrey takes on this permanent role, he faces the task of leading a department in a city known for its rich history and diverse economy. Louisville, founded in 1778 and named after King Louis XVI of France, is not only famous for the Kentucky Derby but also plays a significant role in the bourbon industry and is part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

The new chief will be responsible for overseeing law enforcement in a city with a vibrant arts scene, numerous educational institutions including the University of Louisville, and one of the busiest cargo airports in the world. As Louisville continues its efforts in sustainability and green initiatives, Humphrey's leadership will be crucial in maintaining public safety and trust in this dynamic urban environment.