NOPD chief selection process sparks debate between mayoral candidates

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The mayor’s election is months away, but one issue divides at least two of the candidates, and that’s how the superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department is chosen.

City Councilman Oliver Thomas believes the public should have a hand in electing the city’s next police chief.

Thomas publicly stated, “Chief Anne Kirkpatrick has certainly earned the right to be considered, but under my leadership, the superintendent will be accountable to the people, not just the mayor.”

His remarks didn’t sit well with his opponent, Arthur Hunter, a former police officer and judge.

Hunter called a press conference on Wednesday afternoon in front of NOPD Headquarters. There, he said public input could potentially politicize the role and threaten public safety.

“You have to protect your community,” said Hunter. “You also have to make sure people are safe and that you’re safe as well, and dealing with inside politics to add to that mix will not lead to a city that we can protect.”

Kirkpatrick was selected by Mayor LaToya Cantrell in 2023 to serve as NOPD’s superintendent following a national search led by the International Police Association.

Thomas was the only council member who voted against Kirkpatrick’s confirmation.

WGNO reached out to both offices of Thomas and Council Vice President Helena Moreno, who’s also running for mayor, for comment, and we have not yet heard back.

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