Buffalo Police Commissioner Erika Shields has unveiled her new leadership team, appointing Deputy Commissioner Thelma Jones and Chief Andre Lloyd, Sr. to key positions. The new leadership team is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Buffalo Police Department.
According to a report by WGRZ, Commissioner Shields announced the appointments on May 7, 2026.
"I am excited to announce the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Thelma Jones and Chief Andre Lloyd, Sr. to our leadership team," said Commissioner Shields.
The appointments are part of Commissioner Shields' effort to reform the Buffalo Police Department. The department has faced criticism in recent years over its handling of certain cases, and Commissioner Shields has pledged to bring about change.
The new leadership team will be responsible for overseeing the department's operations, including patrols in neighborhoods such as Elmwood Village and Downtown Buffalo. The team will also be responsible for implementing new policies and procedures aimed at improving community relations.
The appointments have been welcomed by Buffalo residents, who are hoping that the new leadership team will bring about positive change. Parents in the Buffalo school district will be particularly interested in the team's efforts to improve community relations.
As the new leadership team gets to work, residents will be watching closely to see how they will address the department's challenges. The Buffalo Common Council is expected to hold a hearing on the police department's budget in the coming weeks, which will provide an opportunity for residents to weigh in on the department's priorities.