Metro Transit Names Eddie Frizell As New Police Chief
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Metro Transit has just announced their next police chief and it's a Minneapolis Police Department veteran.
Eddie Frizell will assume the post Aug. 5, after having served as 1st Precinct inspector in Minneapolis, during which his duties included ensuring public safety during the 2018 Super Bowl. He has held many positions within the Minneapolis Police Department during his career.
The former Deputy Chief of Police also served as a SWAT negotiator and an internal affairs investigator.
Frizell will take over the department as the eighth chief, following the departure of John Harrington, who is serving as the new Commissioner of Public Safety in Gov. Tim Walz's administration.
Metro Transit employs 120 full-time and 60 part-time officers, though the organization said they intend on hiring more personnel with the completion of the Southwest LRT line.
"I look forward to leading the group of law enforcement professionals at the Metro Transit Police Department as we continue to serve our region with respect, professionalism and a commitment to guardianship for our riders, employees and the communities throughout our transit system," Frizell said.
Frizell is no stranger to leadership. He has served 30 years in the Minnesota Army National Guard, deploying twice to Bosnia and Kuwait. Frizell currently holds the rank of Colonel.
Frizell knows his new job of chief of Metro Transit Police will be challenging, but he says he's prioritized what he will try and accomplish when he starts.
"I will always make sure the guardians of the Metro Transit Police Department reflect the communities which we serve, which is something I want to continue," he said. "Right now, Metro Transit Police are one of the most diverse in the state."
