Minneapolis Police Chief Resigns Amid Investigation Interference

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara has opted to resign rather than face possible disciplinary action for interference in an investigation concerning his personal conduct. Mayor Jacob Frey revealed on Tuesday that O’Hara had been investigated for alleged intimate relationships with city employees. Although these allegations were unproven, investigators determined that O’Hara obstructed their inquiry by deleting a contact from his cell phone and sharing details about the investigation with another city employee despite directives to refrain from doing so.

Frey indicated that a disciplinary process was underway that could lead to termination, prompting O’Hara's decision to step down. “It was an extremely painful decision, obviously, but I concluded that that was necessary to maintain public trust, and this was the right way to move forward as a city,” Frey stated, emphasizing that maintaining trust is a core aspect of the role.

The mayor's office confirmed that there are still 17 ongoing complaints against O’Hara, which are unrelated to the recent investigation. These will continue to be addressed, as per spokesperson Jennifer Lor, who did not disclose specifics about the complaints.

O’Hara, who took on the role of chief in 2022 amid major calls for reform following the murder of George Floyd, had been responsible for significant police responses during his tenure. Assistant Police Chief Katie Blackwell will lead the department while a search for O’Hara’s successor is conducted.