Newly appointed Richmond Police
Chief Bisa French admits that being the first woman and woman of color to run the
150-person department in its 110-year history brings a lot of pressure.
“Being a woman of color, African-American
and Latina, I also know the impacts of law-enforcement on our community,” said
French.
The Richmond community has had its
share of ups and downs, and French has been there for most of it.
She was hired 22 years ago and
worked her way up the ranks.
“I was a teen mom and a local girl,”
she said. “I still live in Richmond. It’s important for me to talk about these
things because I want the young people in my community to know I came from
where you are.”
French is taking on the job at a pivotal
time in history. She was appointed interim chief when the chief before her left
in the midst of controversy.
There were multiple back-to-back
killings, and resources were stretched thin during civil unrest following the death
of George Floyd.
“I want to humanize the badge,” she
said. “…this bloodshed must end.”
French is aware of President Trump’s
plan to send federal agents into some of America’s cities dealing with protests.
That’s something she is against. She said she understands the community’s cry
to defund local police departments.
“I understand where they are coming
from and agree that resources actually need to be put in areas where service
can be given to our communities,” she said.
French is still considered interim
chief. She will be sworn in August 1.
Source: NBC Bay Area
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