Indianapolis, January 29, 2026
Tanya Terry has been appointed as Indianapolis’ first female police chief, marking a historic milestone for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. With a 27-year career at IMPD, she has a proven record of reducing criminal homicides and implementing key community programs. Terry aims to maintain the department’s momentum in enhancing public safety and fostering community trust in her new role.
Indianapolis Appoints Tanya Terry as First Female Police Chief
Indianapolis, Indiana – Mayor Joe Hogsett has appointed Tanya Terry, a 27-year veteran of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), as the city’s first female police chief. Terry’s swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for February 2, 2026.
Historic Appointment
Terry’s appointment marks a significant milestone in IMPD’s history. She succeeds Chris Bailey, who stepped down earlier this month to become the chief deputy mayor. As deputy chief of operations, Terry played a pivotal role in reducing criminal homicides to an eight-year low and implementing the department’s first five-year strategic plan. Mayor Hogsett praised her dedication, stating that few have spent as many waking hours dedicated to the safety and security of Indianapolis as Tanya.
Career Highlights
Throughout her nearly three-decade career with IMPD, Terry has held various positions, including patrol officer, field training officer, and district detective. She was promoted to sergeant in 2016, lieutenant in 2018, and Southwest District Commander in 2021. In 2021, she initiated the Juvenile Diversion Program, which connects youth with community resources to prevent involvement in the juvenile justice system. The program was expanded citywide during her tenure as deputy chief.
Community Impact
Terry’s leadership has been instrumental in enhancing public safety in Indianapolis. Under her guidance, the city experienced a 44% reduction in criminal homicides and non-fatal shootings over the past four years. She emphasized the importance of community partnerships and data-driven strategies in achieving these outcomes.
Looking Ahead
As the first woman to lead IMPD permanently, Terry aims to continue the department’s progress in reducing crime and strengthening community trust. She expressed her commitment to serving the community and supporting the department’s officers in her new role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Tanya Terry?
Tanya Terry is a 27-year veteran of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, recently appointed as the city’s first female police chief. She has held various positions within the department, including deputy chief of operations and Southwest District Commander.
What are her career achievements?
Throughout her career, Terry has been instrumental in reducing criminal homicides to an eight-year low and implementing the department’s first five-year strategic plan. She also initiated the Juvenile Diversion Program, which was expanded citywide during her tenure as deputy chief.
What is her vision as police chief?
As the first woman to lead IMPD permanently, Terry aims to continue the department’s progress in reducing crime and strengthening community trust. She expressed her commitment to serving the community and supporting the department’s officers in her new role.
Key Features of Tanya Terry’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Appointment Date | January 28, 2026 |
| Swearing-In Ceremony | February 2, 2026 |
| Previous Position | Deputy Chief of Operations |
| Career Highlights | Reduced criminal homicides to an eight-year low; implemented first five-year strategic plan; initiated and expanded Juvenile Diversion Program citywide |
| Community Impact | Achieved a 44% reduction in criminal homicides and non-fatal shootings over the past four years |
| Vision as Police Chief | Continue reducing crime and strengthening community trust; support department officers |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
