Issue
Turnover at the top of Pittsburgh Police and the hiring of a permanent chief.
City Council
On Jan. 28, acting police chief Jason Lando told council the city won't assist federal immigration enforcement. He spoke under oath in a four-hour interview, as council moves toward installing a new chief. He committed to working with leaders, the city's attorney, and affected residents on a plan. Lando also wants to bring in an in-house clinician for officer mental health.
City Council
Council has to approve the mayor's pick for police chief, plus eight of his other appointments. That pick is Jason Lando, a former Pittsburgh officer who now leads police in Frederick, Maryland. Other appointees who need council's OK include the city solicitor. Lando is scheduled to meet with council on Jan. 28.
City Council
Christopher Ragland, a Pittsburgh officer for over 30 years, has been interim police chief since October 2024. On Feb. 1, the mayor officially nominated him for chief. Now, council has approved a member's request for a public hearing before appointing him. The member cited concerns from constituents and the NAACP.
City Council
The mayor let the police chief referee 40 NCAA basketball games on his personal time off, without telling council or the public. After the news broke, the chief retired early. This week, a council member called a special meeting with top city officials, but the chief didn't attend despite an invitation. Several council members said they now have no trust in the mayor's office.