Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge’s attorney claimed Tuesday that she is being unfairly targeted as “a political scapegoat and a political pawn” after the city placed her on paid leave pending an internal investigation into her fitness to lead the department.
Republican mayoral candidate Cory Bowman, who is also the half-brother of Vice President JD Vance, echoed these claims, stating that Theetge—who has served 35 years in the Cincinnati Police Department—is being used for political gain just weeks before an election. “The mayor and city manager are exploiting her as a scapegoat,” Bowman said on X.
Theetge’s attorney, Stephen Imm of Finney Law, described her as “devastated” but emphasized she has no intention of resigning. In a statement to department officers, City Manager Sheryl Long announced the appointment of Assistant Chief Adam Hennie as interim police chief, citing the need for stability amid “serious public safety challenges.”
Finney Law held a press conference Tuesday, with Imm calling the suspension a “hasty and unlawful decision.” He revealed that Theetge was informed of her leave on the day of her 35th anniversary with the department. “There is no one better qualified than Terry Theetge to address crime in Cincinnati,” Imm asserted.
Theetge’s leadership came under scrutiny after July videos showed a violent black-on-white mob attack injuring six people, including two hospitalized. During a press conference, she downplayed the incident, claiming social media clips lacked context and criticized the media for “misrepresenting” events. Six suspects were later indicted on charges including felonious assault.
Following a recent shooting near Cincinnati’s football stadium, Theetge condemned criminals for “not learning how to behave in our city.” Bowman, however, shifted blame to city officials, accusing them of failing to address the crime wave despite offers of state assistance. “This isn’t just a police chief issue—it’s failed leadership from the top down,” he stated.
Imm argued that Theetge has no valid reason for her suspension, noting the city’s charter allows dismissal only for cause after six months. He also accused politicians of “hamstraining” her efforts. Meanwhile, Mayor Aftab Pureval expressed confidence in interim chief Hennie, citing his focus on technology and rapid response.
The controversy intensified with reports that Captain Hennie signed off on a misdemeanor charge against Alex Tchervinski, a victim of the summer beatdown. His attorney called the charge “unusual” and alleged political influence. FOP president Ken Kober accused city leaders of pressuring the CPD to file the case.
Theetge remains defiant, with Imm stating she has no desire to resign. The city’s leadership faces mounting pressure to resolve the dispute ahead of the November 4 election.
