Columbus police chief to take on new security role

Columbus Police Chief Mike Richardson will take on a new role this summer, moving jobs to be the city’s first director of security and risk.

Mayor Mary Ferdon is announcing that Richardson will take on the new duties on June 3rd, following his retirement later this spring from the police department.

Ferdon said that the Security and Risk director will oversee employee, visitor and building security. The department will evaluate buildings and security process and train employees. She said that the position means the city will be more proactive in protecting not just employees but residents and visitors in city buildings.

She said Richardson brings experience, new ideas and passion to the role. Prior to being appointed police chief by former Mayor Jim Lienhoop in 2020, he served in roles ranging from patrolman to deputy chief. Richardson was reappointed as chief by Mayor Ferdon in January.

Richardson, a Bartholomew County native, is a 29-year-veteran of the Columbus Police Department. He holds an associates degree in law enforcement from Vincennes University and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Indiana State University.