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Peter Cox

Harteau makes sweeping changes in Mpls. police precinct, department leadership

Police chief Janee Harteau
Minneapolis police chief Janee Harteau at a press conference March 30, 2016.
Riham Feshir | MPR News

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The Minneapolis police department announced changes in leadership in five police precincts Tuesday.

In a statement, Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau said the aim of the reorganization was "to improve employee engagement and morale, and with that in mind, I am excited to see what our leaders will bring to their new positions and communities."

Three current inspectors commanding precincts will be shifted to command other precincts.

Todd Loining and Kathy Waite swap commands, with Loining taking over the 2nd Precinct, and Waite the 5th.

Michael Sullivan will move to the 1st Precinct from the 3rd. Catherine Johnson will be promoted to take over the 3rd from Commander in charge of the Special Crimes Investigations Division.

In the 4th Precinct, Michael Kjos takes over from Lt. Michael Friestleben, who will lead the department's Community Engagement Team.

Friestleben began commanding the 4th precinct in early 2015. But this spring, he was put on leave for unspecified reasons, and Kjos was named his interim replacement.

Citing his "wealth of experience and expertise in building relationships with the communities we serve," the statement from department spokesman Scott Seroka said Friestleben would "continue to cultivate and grow relationships in north Minneapolis while simultaneously growing the Department's community policing efforts in every corner of the city."

Harteau also created a new position, a Quality Assurance Commander who will oversee body camera initiatives and the department's use of force policy, among other duties. She said the former head of the Violent Crimes Investigations Division Chris Granger will take over the new position.

"We are constantly analyzing where our leaders will fit best, and assessing what experiences they may need as they progress through their careers and our ranks," Harteau said. "I can assure you they will earn your trust and respect as they transition into their new roles. Each and every one of them brings a unique perspective, level of expertise and skill set to their assigned precincts."

Harteau also promoted two lieutenants, Melissa Chiodo and Erick Fors, to commander level positions, which the release said were part of the chief's effort to develop new leaders.

The changes are set to go into effect on July 24.