Appointment of Michael Sullivan as the Next U.S. Capitol Police Chief
The Capitol Police Board welcomes Michael G. Sullivan to the position of Chief of the United States Capitol Police.
With over 30 years of law enforcement experience across three major U.S. cities, Michael Sullivan has focused on increasing transparency, improving departmental efficiency, and fostering strong relationships between officers, elected officials, and the community.
Sullivan’s career in policing began with the Louisville Division of Police in Kentucky in 1995. Following the department’s transition to the Louisville Metro Police Department in 2003, he rose through the ranks to serve as Deputy Chief from 2016 to 2019. He was then recruited to join the Baltimore Police Department, where he served as Deputy Commissioner from 2019 to 2022, overseeing both the Operations and Compliance Bureaus.
Sullivan next served as the Interim Chief of the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) from 2022 to 2025. He spearheaded major reforms and operational improvements that led to significant policy changes and enhanced community engagement. Sullivan also played a critical role in guiding PPD through a Department of Justice (DOJ) “pattern-and-practice” investigation, ensuring that necessary reforms were made in a meaningful and sustainable manner. Additionally, he overhauled PPD’s use-of-force policies, ensuring officers receive updated training on best practices, and restructured the Organizational Integrity Bureau to reinforce accountability within the department.
A graduate of the University of Louisville, Sullivan holds both a bachelor’s degree in Police Administration and a master’s degree in the Administration of Justice. Sullivan’s leadership credentials include training at some of the nation’s top law enforcement institutions, including: the Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officers Course, the FBI National Academy, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)/MacArthur Foundation Institute on Juvenile Justice, and the Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA) Police Executive Leadership Institute (PELI). In 2018, he was recognized by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) with the Gary P. Hayes Award, which recognizes promising leaders in policing. He currently serves on the IACP Human and Civil Rights Committee.
The Board is confident in Chief Sullivan’s experience, leadership, and approach in protecting the Congress as an institution to ensure the legislative process is unimpeded. The Congressional Community is fortunate to have a seasoned professional who will lead with integrity, ensure accountability, and draw on his experience in providing a safe and secure environment for Members of Congress, staff, and visitors. He will implement a strategic approach to optimize the Department’s resources and staffing, ensuring the USCP continues to uphold its mission with the utmost professionalism.
Mr. Sullivan will be sworn in June 30, 2025.
The Board appreciates the thoughtful input received from both sworn and civilian USCP staff which was utilized in the selection process for the new Chief. We are – as always – grateful for your service to the Congressional community.