Dayton, Ohio – The City of Dayton has named Eric A. Henderson as its new Chief of Police, concluding a lengthy and carefully planned selection process that stretched over nearly five years. City officials described the appointment as the result of intentional preparation and broad community input, aimed at ensuring steady leadership and long-term stability within the department.
Henderson, currently serving as Deputy Chief, brings more than 27 years of law enforcement experience. His career within the Dayton Police Department has progressed through multiple ranks, including Patrol Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Major, and Deputy Chief. This wide range of roles has placed him in both frontline and command-level positions, shaping his approach to leadership in demanding and complex situations.
Community voices and long-term planning shape decision
The path to selecting a new chief was built on more than internal review. City leaders included a community stakeholder panel to take part in the interview process, ensuring that the public had a voice in the decision. The session was led by Patrick Oliver from Cedarville University, and included representatives from business groups, neighborhood organizations, civil rights advocates, educators, and nonprofit leaders. Their input helped guide a broader evaluation focused on trust and public expectations.
During his time with the department, Henderson has worked across divisions that handle both routine duties and high-pressure events. The department itself includes around 365 sworn officers and about 40 professional staff, and Henderson has played a role in guiding its operations during major incidents such as tornadoes, active shooter situations, and public demonstrations. His work has also included efforts to strengthen ties between police and residents through community-focused strategies.
His leadership extends into areas such as budgeting, planning, and personnel oversight. He has managed large-scale public safety operations and helped shape policies that influence how the department responds to ongoing challenges. Henderson has also contributed at the state level, serving on a task force organized by Dave Yost focused on improving police training standards, and working with lawmakers on public safety issues.
Henderson’s professional development includes a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Park University, a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice from University of Virginia, and training through the FBI National Academy. He also completed the Senior Management Institute for Police, a program designed to prepare senior leaders for modern policing challenges.
City Manager Shelley Dickstein expressed confidence in the decision, stating, “Eric has broad and deep knowledge of the varied operations throughout the police department and a demonstrated ability to collaborate and build meaningful, strategic partnerships with community stakeholders. I am confident in his ability to work with any group that is authentically interested in continuing the work to make Dayton a safe and peaceful city for all.”
Henderson shared his own priorities as he prepares to step into the role. He said, “As Chief, my focus will be building trust and transparency within the department and with the community through listening, communication, and accountability.” He added, “Violent crime continues to cause generational harm to families across our city, and we will confront it by working alongside community members, the business community, and our partners across all levels of government, using coordinated enforcement, technology, and evidence-based strategies focused on those responsible for violent crime. We will also invest in our people, prioritizing wellness, building resilience, and ensuring our staff have the training and professional development they need to serve at their best.”
Henderson will officially take on the role of Chief of Police on May 7, 2026, stepping into a position shaped by long-term planning and strong community involvement.
