DETROIT — On Friday, Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison was appointed as the interim chief of the Detroit Police Department, effectively taking over from Chief James White, who has decided to step down.

Bettison’s extensive 27-year career within the police department has prepared him well for this transition; he previously served as second-in-command under White, where he managed police-community relations and administrative tasks before his appointment as deputy mayor.

Mayor Mike Duggan expressed his mixed feelings regarding this change, stating, “I hate to lose him as deputy mayor, but this job is so critical that I’m just so pleased we had somebody ready to step in,” underscoring the importance of leadership in the police department. Bettison was appointed as deputy mayor by Duggan.

A nationwide search will commence to find a permanent replacement for the chief position. The mayor noted his expectation for Bettison to participate in a competitive process alongside top candidates across the country, hinting at the rigorous selection methods to come.

Chief White announced his resignation earlier to assume the role of chief executive at Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, where he intends to continue advocating for mental health initiatives. White was appointed as chief in 2021, succeeding James Craig after his retirement from a seven-year tenure. Before leading the police force, White served as the chair of Michigan’s Civil Rights Commission and began his journey in law enforcement in 1996.

Bettison joined the police department in 1994 and exhibited rapid advancement in ranks, moving from patrol officer to sergeant and lieutenant within a few years. Eventually, he earned promotions to inspector, captain, commander, and, in 2017, he became deputy chief, highlighting his commitment and capability within the department.