For the first time in Grand Rapids’ history, an African-American will serve as the city's Chief of Police, as City Manager Mark Washington made the annoucement Friday that he has chosen Eric Payne as the GRPD's next leader. While a nationwide search produced multiple candidates for the job, the hire comes from within the department, as Payne has been a Grand Rapids police officer for over three decades, most recently serving as Deputy Chief.
While the other two finalists came from Lansing and Pittsburg respectively, Washington said it was Payne’s dedication to the City of Grand Rapids that ultimately drove his decision.
“I want to thank Deputy Chief--soon to be Chief Payne,” Washington said. “He is one who has dedicated his life to this department.”
Payne inherits a police department that has come under public scrutiny over the past few years after multiple dealings with African American youths damaged community and police relations.
Payne addressed those issues, Friday, telling media at a press conference that while he is an internal hire, changes to the GRPD will be made under his watch.
“It is not going to be ‘business as usual,’” Payne said.
It's another historic first for the City of Grand Rapids. While City Manager Mark Washington is the first African American city manager in Grand Rapids history, Rosalynn Bliss in 2016 became the first female ever elected as mayor in history as well.