Captain of Detectives Promoted to Anchorage Police Chief

The current Anchorage Police Department Captain of Detectives has been named the city’s next police chief by Mayor Dave Bronson.

Bianca Cross is a 26-year-veteran of the Anchorage PD, and she will be the city’s first female chief, Alaska Public Media reports. She will be replacing Chief Michael Kerle who is retiring. Kerle served the Anchorage Police Department for close to 28 years, and was chief for the last two.

Cross, who grew up in Anchorage, will take over the chief job April 30.

“I’m committed to leading with compassion, inclusivity and transparency,” Cross said. “I look forward to collaborating with the community members, stakeholders and elected officials to address the challenges and opportunities facing our city.”

Cross said her initial priorities as chief will be working on the transition from Kerle, and maintaining focus on major city issues like crime and homelessness.