NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch Formally Appoints John Chell as Chief of Department, Philip Rivera as Chief of Patrol, and Edward Thompson as Chief of Internal Affairs

December 31, 2024

New York, New York – New York City Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch today announced the official appointments of John Chell as Chief of Department, Philip Rivera as Chief of Patrol, and Edward A. Thompson as Chief of Internal Affairs, all effective immediately.

“In 2025, the NYPD will build on the gains of the past year to make every New York City neighborhood even safer,” said NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “These leaders will ensure we continue to drive down crime and improve quality of life, maintain honor and integrity across the Department, and strengthen the bonds of partnership between the police and the people of our great city.”

As Chief of Department, Chief Chell is the NYPD’s highest-ranking uniformed officer, tasked with overseeing the Department’s crime-fighting strategies, quality of life initiatives, and operational plans. Chief Chell most recently served as Chief of Patrol. During Chief Chell’s time as Chief of Patrol, New York City has seen an overall reduction in crime and shooting violence. He has led the crack down on illegal ghost cars, mopeds, and smoke shops. Before becoming Chief of Patrol, Chief Chell served as the Commanding Officer of the 61st, 75th, and 79th Precinct, as well as Detective Borough Brooklyn North and Detective Borough Brooklyn South. In recognition of his courage and leadership, Chief Chell was awarded the Medal of Valor in 2000. Chief Chell is a 30-year veteran of the Department.

As Chief of Patrol, Chief Rivera will manage nearly 15,000 uniformed officers on patrol and 3,000 civilians in the largest bureau in the Department. Chief Rivera most recently served as Chief of Transportation, responsible for ensuring the safety of the roads, bridges, and highways across New York City. During his tenure, Chief Rivera implemented strategies that reduced fatalities, injuries, and collisions across the busiest corridors in New York City. Prior to serving as Chief of Transportation, Chief Rivera served as Commanding Officer of both Patrol Borough Bronx and Patrol Borough Manhattan North, as well as the 41st and 46th Precinct. Chief Rivera is a 29-year veteran of the Department.

As Chief of Internal Affairs, Edward A. Thompson will be responsible for preserving integrity and rooting out corruption in all its forms. Assistant Chief Thompson joined the NYPD in January 1986, and began his career on patrol in the 52nd Precinct in the Bronx. Chief Thompson has since served as commanding officer of IAB Zone 1, the Office of the Chief of Internal Affairs, the Fugitive Enforcement Division, and the Quality Assurance Section. He also served as Chief of Enforcement for the New York City Department of Sanitation, and is a graduate of the 207th Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.