DC mayor appoints Pamela Smith as new police chief amid rising crime

Pamela Smith is the first Black woman appointed as DC's police chief and has over 25 years of law enforcement experience.
Smith was hired last year as DC's first equity officer and made an impact in a short time before being promoted.
Violent crime in DC has risen significantly this year, including sharp increases in homicide, robbery, and vehicle theft.
Smith acknowledges the challenge of rising crime and the need for accountability and engagement with juveniles.
Some city council members have taken a weak approach to crime, diverting funds away from hiring more police officers.