Deputy chief Erika Shields was named Atlanta’s 24th chief of police Thursday, replacing George Turner who is retiring.
Shields joined the Atlanta Police Department in 1995. During her tenure she has served as a Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Major prior to her appointment to Deputy Chief. She currently serves as the Deputy Chief of the Support Services Division.
She will start the job on Dec. 28.
“I am truly humbled, honored and grateful for this opportunity you have afforded me,” she said following the announcement of her appointment.
Turner was appointed the department's 23rd chief six years ago. His retirement after 35 years on the force was announced Wednesday.
Born at Grady Memorial Hospital and raised in Perry Homes, Turner joined APD in 1981 and worked his way up the ladder, serving as former Mayor Andrew Young’s driver on a security detail, overseeing APD’s human resources department, leading the recruitment unit and commanding the Zone 1 precinct in northwest Atlanta, and deputy chief.
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