Meet Mike Marshman, Portland's New Chief of Police

Larry O'Dea's replacement has the backing of the feds and the police union.

By Nigel Jaquiss

Mike Marshman became Portland's 46th chief of police on Monday. Here's what you need to know about him:

Age: 50

Previous rank: Captain

Previous assignment: Portland police liaison to U.S. Department of Justice

Biggest accomplishment: Winning the confidence of DOJ overseers who are conducting a years-long reformation of the Portland Police Bureau. "He's very methodical," says U.S. Attorney for Oregon Billy Williams. "He's someone who's very invested in working with the DOJ."

How he became police chief: Outgoing Chief Larry O'Dea resigned June 27 in the wake of revelations he had accidentally shot a hunting buddy in Eastern Oregon, then allegedly lied to investigators about it. O'Dea tainted the four assistant chiefs in line to succeed him by telling them about the shooting weeks before it became public. Because none of the four assistant chiefs referred the incident for investigation, they lost their chance for promotion.

What the rank and file think of him: Marshman has a reputation as a strong manager. The cantankerous Portland Police Association responded positively to his promotion. "We are optimistic we can work collaboratively with Chief Marshman," PPA president Daryl Turner said in a statement.

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