Minneapolis police reforms leader hired following George Floyd’s murder retiring after a year
Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS — The law enforcement veteran appointed to oversee reforms at the Minneapolis police department in the wake of George Floyd’s killing plans to retire in September after enduring sharp criticism in his first year on the job. Alexander has said he lacked the resources to complete ambitious projects like replacing the city’s five police precincts with community centers offering social services to help fight addiction and homelessness. “That’s just kind of par for the course,” Alexander said, noting that administrators are always admonished for “not moving fast enough.” Mayor Jacob Frey praised Alexander’s work, saying he successfully coordinated security for a Taylor Swift concert and several community events that brought large crowds to downtown Minneapolis earlier this year without any major problems. “I am grateful for his dedication to our city and his excellent work to curb violent crime and make a comprehensive safety system a reality.” Alexander’s supporters say he didn’t have much chance to succeed. “I think he was the right man for the wrong time and the wrong city,” said Lisa Clemons, a retired police sergeant and founder of the street outreach group A Mother’s Love Initiative.