James Craig

James E. Craig is an American law enforcement officer whose career spans more than four decades and includes leadership roles in Detroit, Los Angeles, Portland, and Cincinnati. Craig began his career as an officer with the Detroit Police Department before joining the Los Angeles Police Department, where he served for 28 years and advanced to the rank of captain. In Los Angeles, he oversaw several high-crime areas and implemented strategies focused on crime reduction and community engagement.

Craig later held executive leadership positions as chief of police in Portland, Maine, and Cincinnati, Ohio, becoming the first Black person to serve as chief in both cities. In Portland, he utilized the CompStat process to enhance command accountability and problem-solving, resulting in a reduction in violent crime. He also established the Chief's Community Advisory Board to strengthen community policing and improve relations between the department and residents. During his tenure in Cincinnati, the city experienced its lowest crime rate in years.

Craig was appointed as the 42nd chief of police for the Detroit Police Department, returning to the department where his career began. At the time of his appointment, Detroit faced significant challenges, including extended 911 response times and low homicide clearance rates. Craig implemented organizational reforms, established a new management team, reopened police stations, and created a promotional process for supervisory ranks. He also launched the Real-Time Crime Center, initiated "Green Light Detroit," and formed an Integrity Unit within the Professional Standards Section. Under his leadership, Detroit saw a significant decrease in homicides and violent crime, as well as improved public relations and transparency during critical incidents. The city experienced more than 100 days of protests following the death of George Floyd without incidents of looting or widespread unrest.

Craig holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from West Coast University and a Master of Management degree in public administration from the University of Phoenix. He is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. Craig has received the Champion of Change Award from the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security for his contributions to public safety and security. He has also served as a keynote speaker on leadership in law enforcement and public safety.