Cincinnati Police Chief Theetge Dismissed After Investigation
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CINCINNATI — City Manager Sheryl Long dismissed Police Chief Teresa Theetge on Thursday after a months-long investigation into her leadership that followed a suspension in October. Theetge, who served more than 30 years and was the city's first woman police chief, was removed effective immediately and replaced by Interim Chief Adam Hennie.
On Friday Theetge's attorney, Stephen Imm, announced an appeal and plans to sue and released audio from a pre-disciplinary hearing; the city cited insubordination, inefficiency, unsatisfactory performance and dishonesty in its dismissal letter. Fraternal Order of Police leaders expressed concern about department morale, while officials cited the 2025 Summer Safety Plan and October Fountain Square shootings.
More context
Timeline
- 1. October 13, 2025 — Shooting at Fountain Square increases scrutiny of police response.
- 2. October 2025 — Teresa Theetge is suspended amid a months-long investigation into leadership and effectiveness.
- 3. Late October 2025 (Thursday) — City Manager Sheryl Long fires Police Chief Theetge effective immediately.
- 4. Following day (Friday) — Attorney Stephen/Steve Imm announces plans to appeal and sue, releasing pre-disciplinary hearing audio.
- 5. Post-dismissal — Interim Chief Adam Hennie assumes leadership; FOP and officers report uncertainty about department direction heading into summer.
Why it matters
The dismissal of Cincinnati's Police Chief affects community safety. It could impact the Summer Safety Plan and the department's response to incidents like the Fountain Square shootings. Stay informed about the leadership changes in your local police department.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
