Dearborn Heights swears in new police chief, council and community offer public support

The Dearborn Heights City Council formally welcomed and congratulated the city’s newly sworn-in police chief at its Jan. 27 meeting, with the mayor, council members, former chiefs and community members offering public support.

Mayor Beydoun and multiple council members praised the chief’s leadership during a busy, high-pressure transition period and thanked members of the chief’s family and predecessor leaders who were in attendance. Former chiefs Lee Gavin and Volta Tony were recognized by council members who credited them with long service to the department. Several council members said the chief has ‘hit the ground running’ in the weeks since taking the role.

Residents at the meeting echoed support for the police department and the public works crews after a recent storm and water-main incidents. Angela Venegas and other residents praised DPW and police officers for long shifts and emergency responses during the weather event.

The council’s remarks combined recognition for the chief’s personal sacrifices and gratitude for the broader public-safety workforce’s recent work in the community. No formal disciplinary or operational policy changes were announced at the swearing-in; the council said it looks forward to working with the chief going forward.

Next steps: The council will continue regular oversight of department activities in future meetings.