Press Release: Chairman Mendelson Statement on Resignation of DC Police Chief Peter Newsham

News Release — DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson

Tuesday November 24, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                                                                                                          CONTACT: Lindsey Walton

WASHINGTON, DC — DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson released the following statement after learning of the resignation Metropolitan Police Department Chief Peter Newsham:

“I am as surprised as everyone else at the news of Police Chief Newsham’s decision to leave MPD,” Mendelson said. “I am sorry to see him leave after roughly three decades – a lot of service to the citizens of the District.“

“Yet this presents an opportunity to try new approaches to law enforcement and new strategies to fight violent crime.  We’re losing a good cop, but sometimes a fresh face can be a good, too.”

“The Council stands ready to work with Mayor Bowser to find the best candidate to succeed Chief Newsham.”