In a significant move towards enhancing public safety in Philadelphia, Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker has appointed Adam N. Geer to serve as the city's first chief public safety director. Geer, a deputy inspector general and former homicide prosecutor, will be responsible for coordinating the city's response to crime.

Mayor-elect Parker announced Geer's appointment during a news conference held on Thursday, where she highlighted his extensive experience in the Philadelphia criminal justice system. Geer, who currently works in the city's Office of the Inspector General, has been instrumental in conducting investigations of city agencies and employees to combat fraud and corruption.

Addressing concerns about the chain of command, Mayor-elect Parker assured that Geer would report directly to her and work closely with police commissioner Kevin J. Bethel, while emphasizing that he would not interfere with Bethel's responsibilities. The organizational chart determining the hierarchy of responsibilities will be finalized after Parker is inaugurated as the city's 100th mayor on January 2.

Mayor-elect Parker expressed her confidence in Geer's ability to collaborate effectively with law enforcement agencies, stating, "Anyone who was hoping or was thinking in any way imaginable that the two won't be acting in sync, you are absolutely wrong." Geer also emphasized his role as an "assist maker" to Police Commissioner Bethel and vowed to focus on coordinating the public safety response outside of the Police Department.

In addition to Geer's appointment, Mayor-elect Parker announced that deputy fire commissioner Craig Murphy, a 36-year veteran of the department, would serve as the acting fire commissioner. This position became vacant with the departure of outgoing commissioner Adam K. Thiel, who will assume the role of managing director.

Mayor-elect Parker's administration is taking shape as more appointments are announced ahead of her inauguration. With a commitment to building a talented and diverse team, Parker stated, "We have a lot of hard work to do in the city of Philadelphia, and we are doing our best to pick the best and brightest people to get it done."

This newly established position of chief public safety director marks a significant shift in Philadelphia city government's organization. Previously, public safety responses were coordinated by the outgoing managing director and their deputies. Geer's role will now involve coordinating resources and personnel across various departments, including police, fire, prisons, and emergency services. He will also oversee budgeting, report on operations, and maintain relationships with external stakeholders.

Geer's appointment is subject to confirmation by City Council, marking another step towards implementing important changes in the city's approach towards public safety.

The establishment of this role reflects City Council's recognition of the need for improved coordination among leaders in Philadelphia's criminal justice system, including the courts, the Police Department, and the District Attorney's Office. Geer's appointment will help bridge gaps and foster collaboration among these key entities.

As Philadelphia prepares for Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker's inauguration, the city anticipates significant progress in tackling crime and ensuring the safety of its residents.