Bill Peterson Nominated as Minneapolis Police Chief
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has nominated Interim Police Chief Bill Peterson to serve as the city’s next Chief of Police, subject to confirmation by the Minneapolis City Council. The nomination, announced on October 9, 2026, follows a nationwide search led by Senior Consultant Ron Walsh of California-based Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc.
Chief Peterson brings 31 years of progressively responsible service with the Minneapolis Police Department. He joined the department in 1995 and has served as Interim Chief since June 2026. Previously, he served as First Precinct Inspector, overseeing approximately 120 sworn and civilian employees across patrol, investigations, community response, crime prevention, and other specialized functions. His career also includes assignments in special operations and training, as well as leadership responsibilities during major incidents and events, including the I-35W bridge collapse and Super Bowl LII.
Peterson developed the department’s first agencywide Crisis Intervention Training program and has devoted nearly two decades to supervising and mentoring officers and developing future leaders. During his interim tenure, he has focused on advancing the department’s Early Intervention System, strengthening internal accountability, improving financial oversight, and supporting employees while continuing organizational reform efforts.
Chief Peterson holds a bachelor’s degree in Police Science from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.
Please join Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. in congratulating Chief Peterson on his nomination as Minneapolis’ next Chief of Police.
