COLUMBUS, Ohio — Division of Police Chief Thomas Quinlan agreed to resign at Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther’s request after the mayor lost faith in his police chief in the aftermath of the fatal police shooting last month of Andre Hill, an unarmed 47-year-old Black resident who committed no crime.
Ginther said in his announcement Thursday that it had become clear to him Quinlan was not able to implement the change and reform he envisions for the department.
During news conferences following the Dec. 22 shooting, Ginther appeared without Quinlan present, and the mayor declined multiple opportunities to say he still had confidence in Quinlan's ability to lead the Division.
A few weeks later, Quinlan and Ginther appeared to be on better terms, working together on the city’s response to potential unrest ahead of the inauguration. They appeared together during Gov. Mike DeWine's Jan. 14 briefing and a city event on Jan. 15. Quinlan attempted to explain that he hadn't addressed reporters with Ginther only because he had been working nonstop for days after the shooting on matters related to the termination of Officer Adam Coy, who the city fired for failing to administer medical aid and failing to activate his body camera.
On Thursday, Ginther issued a statement announcing Quinlan would not remain in the role.
“It became clear to me that Chief Quinlan could not successfully implement the reform and change I expect and that the community demands. Columbus residents have lost faith in him and in Division’s ability to change on its own. Chief Quinlan understood. He agreed to step back, so the city can move forward. I appreciate Chief Quinlan’s service to the community and the changes he was able to implement in his time as chief,” the statement said.
Ginther said Deputy Chief Mike Woods will be interim chief while the city begins a national search for a permanent replacement.
“I want to assure Columbus residents that our commitment to change and reform will not wane as we seek the next leader of the Division of Police,” Ginther said. “I remain committed to meaningful, lasting police reform and confronting racism where it exists, advancing social justice so everyone in every neighborhood feels safe.”
He said he would soon appoint members of a Civilian Review Board was approved by voters in November.
“The Board will select an Inspector General, and we will gain civilian oversight of police for the first time in our city’s history,” Ginther said.
Quinlan said in a statement serving in the role has been an honor.
“While I very much hoped to continue in that role, I respect the Safety Director’s decision, and the community’s need to go in a different direction,” Quinlan said.
He said he the city implemented dozens of reforms during his tenure, and he said the department made progress to build public trust.
“Someone else will now carry those priorities forward, and I will help and support them in any way I can. In my three decades of service to Columbus, my commitment has never been to any title or position. It has been to this Division and this community I love. That will not change,” he said.