ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The Albuquerque City Council voted unanimously Monday to confirm Cecily Barker as the city’s new police chief, formalizing her leadership of the department.
Mayor Tim Keller had put Barker forward as his pick last month, and she had been serving as interim chief since January following the retirement of former Chief Harold Medina.
Barker’s appointment marks a milestone for the city: she is the first woman to lead the Albuquerque Police Department, stepping into a role long held by men.
A native of Albuquerque, Barker joined the department in 2004. She spent the first eight years of her career working as a patrol officer, gaining front-line experience in the community she now leads.
Over the years she climbed the ranks, eventually reaching the position of deputy chief. Her local roots and years of service in various roles within the department are expected to shape her approach as the city’s top law enforcement official.
