PORTLAND, Ore.–On September 20, 2023, Mayor Wheeler appointed Bob Day as the Interim Police Chief when then-Chief Chuck Lovell announced he would be moving into a community engagement role. In the subsequent months, Chief Day has embraced the role and demonstrated strong leadership and a clear vision for the future of the Portland Police Bureau. As the City transitions into its new structure, it has become clear that the role of Police Chief is an essential aspect of ensuring stability for the Bureau’s growth and progress. With that goal in mind, Mayor Wheeler is appointing Chief Bob Day as the permanent chief of the Portland Police Bureau.
“Chief Day has more than met my expectations when I appointed him as Interim Chief only a few short months ago. He has proven the value of his diverse experience, his commitment to finding public safety solutions that serve the community and the membership of the Bureau, and a level of positivity that our city needs right now,” said Mayor Wheeler. “I have no doubt that he will accomplish great things as PPB’s permanent chief.”
A permanent police chief will provide a solid foundation upon which the Bureau can build its new structures, including an Independent Monitor in its settlement agreement with the Department of Justice, and a new system of oversight. This permanent appointment is a reflection of the confidence and hopefulness that Chief Day has inspired about Portland’s resiliency and will buttress his efforts to strengthen the Bureau and its relationships with the community. Chief Day’s permanent appointment will take effect immediately.
“I want to thank Mayor Wheeler for his trust and support over the last six months,” said Chief Bob Day. “My vision and goals have not changed since I accepted this role. I remain committed to strengthening the Portland Police Bureau and improving public safety in the city I love.”
Chief Day first joined the Portland Police Bureau as an officer in 1990. He led multiple assignments and teams within the bureau, including the Training Division, Critical Incident Command, Crowd Management, and Operations Branch. He has been recognized for his innovative ideas in crime reduction strategies and his commitment to leading difficult conversations about race, civil disorder, behavioral health, and their impact on the criminal justice system. He has also been a trusted advisor to corporate and public sector leaders and a sought-after presenter on topics such as leadership, resilience, and hope. He became the Deputy Chief of Police in 2018 before retiring in 2019. He was sworn in as Interim Police Chief on October 10, 2023.
*** From Mayor Ted Wheelers’ Office***