As of September 22nd, Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw Is Done

Police Philadelphia Commissioner Danielle Outlaw has announced her resignation. She will be leaving her role for a new position, the mayor's office shared on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

- Thera Martin

Outlaw will go on to become the deputy chief security officer of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. First Deputy John Stanford will serve as Philadelphia's interim police commissioner.

Danielle Outlaw's resignation comes just a few months before the end of Mayor Kenney's second term as Mayor.

While campaigning, several of the mayoral candidates, including Cherelle Parker, did not want to say what they would do once elected in terms of keeping the current police commissioner or not.

Outlaw started her gig as Philadelphia Police Commissioner in February 2020. In accepting her position, she became the first Black woman to lead the Philadelphia Police Department.

She came aboard just before the pandemic hit, so she came at a time when everything was crazy. Although the city was essentially shut down, she had to oversee the city's safety as angry protestors converged on Philadelphia. Mind you, Philly wasn't the only city in turmoil during that time over the police killing of Black people.

Tensions rose between police and some in the community after George Floyd was murdered in May 2020.

Danielle Outlaw in a statement she released Tuesday, September 5, she's grateful for her time in Philadelphia.

"It has been my honor and privilege to serve during Mayor Kenney's administration and alongside each member of the Philadelphia Police Department," she said. "My staff's teamwork, innovative thinking, and determination have kept the Department moving forward, and for that I am extremely grateful."