By John D. Macari Jr.
John Chell Steps Down After Less Than a Year as Chief of Department
In another shakeup inside One Police Plaza, Chief Michael Lipetri has been named the Interim Chief of Department, taking the reins from John Chell, who stepped down this week after serving less than a year as the NYPD’s highest-ranking uniformed officer.
The move marks the latest leadership change under Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, as the department faces mounting pressure to curb violent crime, boost morale, and steady its ranks amid a wave of retirements.
WHO IS MICHAEL LIPETRI?
A 30-year NYPD veteran, Lipetri has built a reputation as one of the department’s sharpest crime strategists. He’s spent years behind the data dashboards that drive CompStat — the NYPD’s famed crime-tracking system — and has been the department’s go-to guy for turning analytics into arrests.
As Chief of Crime Control Strategies, Lipetri led the push for “precision policing,” a blend of neighborhood engagement and targeted enforcement. He’s known for his no-nonsense approach, quick wit, and command of crime stats that rivals anyone in the building.
Before climbing the ranks, Lipetri served in various commands citywide — from precinct patrol to the department’s gun violence suppression efforts. Insiders say his analytical mind and operational chops made him a natural pick to steady the ship in the interim.
CHELL’S SHORT STINT AT THE TOP
John Chell, a 30-plus-year cop who started as a Brooklyn beat officer, was promoted to Chief of Department in January 2025, after serving as Chief of Patrol.
During his brief tenure, Chell became one of the NYPD’s most visible figures.
Sources say Chell’s exit comes as he prepares to file for retirement and a potential disability pension.
WHAT’S NEXT
With violent crime trending unevenly across the five boroughs, all eyes will be on Lipetri as he takes the helm of America’s largest police force — even if just for now. The outcome of the mayoral race will dictate how long he stays in that post.
