Dear Neighbors,

Last night, Council Members were informed that Mayor Frey received an independent investigative report of interference by Police Chief Brian O’Hara with an investigation of his personal conduct. Mayor Frey promptly met with Chief O’Hara and informed him that he would be disciplined, up to and including discharge -- a decision I fully support. The Chief then resigned. 

The report substantiated O’Hara’s interference in an investigation into allegations of sexually intimate relationships with City employees. The allegations of sexually intimate relationships are not currently substantiated, but O’Hara’s interference is clear and unacceptable. The report found that Chief O’Hara: 

• “Knowingly and intentionally deleted a contact card for a City employee from [his] City-issued cell phone during the original investigation, in an attempt to shield that evidence of [his] connection to the City employee from the investigators.” 

• “Disregard[ed] explicit instructions not to discuss any aspect of the original investigation with anyone, by disclosing to another City employee that [his] City-issued cell phone had been taken from [him] for the investigation.” 

I respect Chief O’Hara’s service to our City during the many moments of crisis throughout his tenure, and I am grateful to the investigators, City staff, and leaders holding him accountable for his actions.

Interference in an investigation will never be tolerated -- whether by appointed officials or Minneapolis police officers. My office is committed to ensuring a standard of excellence within the Minneapolis Police Department. We will continue to demand accountability and transparency, alongside a steadfast commitment to thoroughly investigating allegations of sexual misconduct, from our officers and leaders throughout the City’s police reform and public safety efforts. 

Assistant Chief Katie Blackwell will serve as the Acting Chief effective immediately. I look forward to supporting the search for a new Police Chief in the near future. Please feel free to reach out to our office with any questions.

All my love, 

Council Member Whiting