x
Breaking News
More () »

Community leaders, Louisville's Fraternal Order of Police ready for 'new leader with clear focus'

Community members and activists all the way from New York made the trip to raise awareness.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In the middle of a high-profile case, city leaders and community members say they are ready for a "new leader with a clear focus" as LMPD Police Chief Steve Conrad looks to retire.

"It is a step toward the right direction in terms of pursuit for justice for Breonna Taylor as well as the city of Louisville because we feel like this is something that has been needed," attorney representing Breonna Taylor's family, Lonita Baker said. 

Baker was joined by dozens outside of Taylor's apartment Monday where they had laid a wreath and flowers. Community members and activists all the way from New York made the trip to raise awareness.

RELATED: Everything we know so far about the Breonna Taylor case

"The issue that we have with Chief Conrad is just the lack of oversight within the department and with these particular officers," Baker said they are looking forward to a new leader who can bridge the gap between communities of color and law enforcement. "Work with the community and do more community policing."

RELATED: LMPD Chief Steve Conrad to retire

RELATED: Councilmembers say police chief's departure 'has been a long time coming'

Though Chief Conrad's retirement comes in the middle of Taylor's high-profile case, FOP president of River City Lodge 614, Ryan Nichols, said Conrad's exit is what they have been expecting for a while.

"We congratulate him on his retirement, and he has served 40 years in law enforcement so for him to say he's retiring doesn't necessarily surprise me," Nichols said. 

Nichols said almost all LMPD officers are hungry for change and new leadership.

"The men and women of the LMPD did not feel supported by this administration," he said. "We think that the new leader needs to have a clear vision, be courageous, have integrity and honesty, humility and a clear focus."

An FOP vote in 2016 showed an overwhelming amount of members had no-confidence in Chief Conrad. A spike in homicides was cited as one of the concerns.  

RELATED: Councilmembers frustrated with 'weak' city leadership, call for more action on Breonna Taylor case

"I can't lay all of that at the feet of the chief obviously, but the chief of a department our size needs to be able to have a clear vision and develop ways to address those crime spikes," Nichols said. "[The new Chief needs to] understand that they might not be the best at every particular situation and therefore surround themselves with best people as possible in each of their command staff positions.”

RELATED: Commonwealth's Attorney asks judge to dismiss Kenneth Walker case

RELATED: Apology wanted from Louisville councilwoman after her Kenneth Walker 'hero' comment, she says she's not backing down

Download the WHAS11 News app now for the latest information and updates. 

Apple iPhone users click here

► Android Phone users click here

Other stories related to Breonna Taylor investigation:

RELATED: FBI opens investigation in Breonna Taylor death

RELATED: 'Every life matters-every day.' Louisville councilwoman pens strong statement about Breonna Taylor's death

RELATED: Louisville faith leaders demand prosecution and suspension of officers involved in Breonna Taylor shooting

RELATED: Detective in Breonna Taylor shooting accused of 'harassment' in federal lawsuit

RELATED: Attorney says LMPD provided false information on 'no-knock' warrant in Breonna Taylor case

RELATED: 'If there’s areas for improvement or policy change, that will come out of this as well': Mayor Fischer ensures fairness in Breonna Taylor case

RELATED: LMPD: Breonna Taylor investigation almost complete, calls for FBI and US Attorney to review

RELATED: Photos show Breonna Taylor's home in aftermath of deadly shooting

Before You Leave, Check This Out