Monroe Nichols Appoints TPD's Laurel Roberts As Public Safety Commissioner

Tulsa Mayor-elect Monroe Nichols has selected Tulsa Police Major Laurel Roberts as Public Safety Commissioner, a new position created to oversee both the police and fire departments.

In a statement, Nichols' team says Roberts will focus on "fostering accountability, improving response times and working with the police and fire chiefs."

Roberts was also one of the finalists to be the next police chief, but Mayor Bynum selected Dennis Larson.

"I'm honored and excited to take on the role of Commissioner of Public Safety," Maj. Roberts said in a statement. "I look forward to working with our Chiefs and partners at EMSA so that together we can tackle challenges, celebrate what is going well, and improve our operations to most effectively serve Tulsans. Ensuring the safety of Tulsans in every aspect of public safety is my top priority. Together, we will build a stronger, more secure future for our community.”

News On 6 reached out to Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen for comment-he said he congratulates Roberts on her retirement from TPD and looks forward to working with the new mayor.

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