Evansville’s new police chief is the second African-American to hold the position. WNIN’s John Gibson has more:
Philip Smith has served on the Evansville Police Department for eleven years, most recently as the department's Assistant Chief of Police.
Evansville’s first Black mayor, Stephanie Terry, announced Smith’s appointment as police chief on Monday.
Smith stressed diversity:
"One thing I want to do is start a chief's multi-cultural collaboration table with spiritual leaders and ethnic leaders in the community so they can have a sit-down, face-to-face with the chief."
Smith also thanked retiring Chief Billy Bolin, describing him as a visionary, a mentor, and a friend.
Smith says he aspires to live up to the legacy Bolin leaves behind.
Evansville’s first Black police chief was Marvin Guest, who Mayor Frank McDonald the Second appointed in 1998.
Mayor Terry has also announced the city’s new fire chief, 20-year veteran Anthony Knight.
Knight has worked most recently as the fire department’s Chief of Health and Safety.