30-year veteran of St. Louis department named police chief
ST. LOUIS — The new police chief in St. Louis is a 30-year veteran of the department described by community activists as a “fair and decent” man who will reach out to residents, including those with a strong distrust of police.
Mayor Lyda Krewson on Thursday announced the hiring of John Hayden, who most recently has been a major in charge of the patrol division on the crime-riddled north side of St. Louis.
Krewson said the city was seeking someone with a stellar reputation, a proven track record and a reputation for being fair and inclusive.
“That describes John Hayden and I am thrilled to have him as the chief of police,” Krewson said.