Oakland Mayor Jean Quan swore in an interim police chief Thursday, just days after Chief Anthony W. Batts abruptly announced that he would step down from leading the crime-beleaguered city's department.
The change in command comes as the Oakland Police Department -- which has operated under a federal consent decree imposed in 2003 after a scandal that involved officers beating and framing suspects -- is struggling with an understaffed force and a soaring homicide rate.
As a line of officers looked on, Quan administered the oath to Assistant Chief Howard Jordan. The 23-year department veteran is a longtime political ally of the mayor and has been leading the team charged with bringing the force into compliance with the federal settlement.
Calling Jordan a "cop's cop," Quan said that his selection promises continuity, rank-and-file support and the best shot at changing the department's culture.
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