INDIANAPOLIS — Changes are happening within the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
On Wednesday, Chief Chris Bailey announced the promotion of four of his own into new positions.
Commander Tanya Terry was promoted to deputy chief of operations, Commander Richard Riddle was promoted to deputy chief of professional standards, Deputy Chief Michael Wolley promoted to assistant chief and Deputy Chief Catherine Cummings promoted to assistant chief.
"These individuals bring experience, compassion and integrity to their roles—reinforcing our committing to serve and protect our entire city," Bailey said.
Cummings told 13News she's excited about her new position.
"I am someone who enjoys change and enjoys a new challenge," Cummings said.
Her role involves handling the administrative side of things and create new projects like bringing data and technology together.
"Hopefully will translate into better transparency for the community within the IMPD so that community members have an easier and more timely access to our data," Cummings said.
Cummings became the first woman appointed to major of the Investigations Division.
"I chose to wear this uniform because I want women and young girls to see other women wearing uniforms like this," Cummings said. "I want people in our community to understand that there are different types of leadership, that it's not just men who make good leaders, that women make excellent leaders, too."
Cummings served 25 years with the department in various roles, including helping develop the Behavioral Health Unit/Mobile Crisis Assistance Team (MCAT) programs.
Assistant Chief Michael Wolley was also appointed.
"It's important that we continue having good conversations with our community partners," Wolley said.
Wolley, a 17-year veteran of the department, has also served in various roles throughout his career, like Youth Violence Reduction Team detective and community affairs officer.
Wolley will now handle oversight of Patrol and Special Operations.
"The challenge will be how do we get into the rooms? How do we get to the people who aren't necessarily comfortable to talk to us? That's where the magic's going to happen," Wolley said.
Wolley, former district commander of the North District, says engagement is key.
"So it's not 'Assistant Chief Wolley, hey, I got this.' It's, 'Hey, Mike, you might want to look this direction. That's all I got but it should be enough,'" Wolley said.
It's enough for the department's new command staff to make a difference for the people of Indianapolis.