Overview

• The NYPD confirmed John Chell’s retirement Wednesday and announced Michael LiPetri’s interim appointment in a personnel order and press release.
• LiPetri, a 31-year veteran who has led Crime Control Strategies since 2019, was praised by Commissioner Jessica Tisch for recent crime reductions.
• The Daily News reported, citing sources, that Chell is seeking a three‑quarter disability pension tied to a 2024 ankle injury sustained during a migrant operation on Randall’s Island.
• Chell’s departure follows a federal lawsuit by former interim commissioner Thomas Donlon alleging corruption by city leaders, allegations City Hall has dismissed as baseless.
• Chell’s tenure drew a DOI finding that his social‑media posts were unprofessional and included pursuit practices linked by NYPD data to sharp increases in vehicle chases and collisions, while the CRT he helped launch lacked written policies and required training.