The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has named Robert Tracy as its next police chief.
Tracy’s selection marks the first time an incoming St. Louis Chief of Police takes comes from another police department outside of St. Louis. He joins the department out of Wilmington, Delaware.
“Although I’m not from St. Louis … I know in a short time, this city will feel like home to me,” said Tracy. “Together, we will make a difference. I’m excited to get started.”
Tracy has more than 36 years of law enforcement experience. In addition to his experience in Wilmington, he also served with New York City and Chicago police departments.
In a news conference Wednesday, Tracy says his department helped reduce violent crime in Wilmington by 50% over a five-plus year stretch. He also noted that Chicago’s homicide rate dropped to a fifty-year low while he served from 2011 to 2016.
“My office has heard from Wilmington leaders and those who have been colleagues of Chief Tracy before. Across the board, they uplift his strength of character, his compassionate leadership, and effective planning,” said St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones. “He’s dedicated to being a visible and dedicated chief to the communities he and his officers serve.”
