CHIEF OF POLICE (COP)

Message from the Chief of Police:

“The authority entrusted to this department carries with it a solemn responsibility. Every action taken by a USPD officer must be lawful, measured, and guided by an unwavering commitment to public safety and professional integrity. Our mission is not simply to enforce the law, but to uphold it in a manner that earns and sustains public trust.”
— Richard A. Coleman, Chief of Police

Leadership Overview

Chief Richard A. Coleman serves as the senior executive and commanding authority of the United States Police Department. As Chief of Police, he is responsible for the overall direction, operational integrity, and strategic development of the USPD as a full-authority law-enforcement organization.

With decades of experience in command-level policing and organizational leadership, Chief Coleman is recognized for his firm commitment to lawful authority, professional accountability, and disciplined command structures. His leadership emphasizes mission clarity, operational readiness, and adherence to constitutional and statutory policing standards.

Authority & Command

Under Chief Coleman’s leadership, the USPD operates as an established police organization with full law-enforcement authority, including patrol, investigative, and special-operations capabilities as defined by its governing charter.

The Chief of Police exercises final command authority over:

• Department-wide policy, directives, and operational doctrine

• Appointment, supervision, and discipline of sworn and civilian personnel

• Professional standards, internal oversight, and accountability mechanisms

• Interagency cooperation, task forces, and mutual-aid operations

• Strategic planning, modernization, and capability development
  
  

All operational authority exercised by USPD personnel originates from and is accountable to the Office of the Chief of Police.

Professional Philosophy

Chief Coleman’s leadership is guided by enduring principles reflected across the department:

• Legitimacy: Law-enforcement authority must be clearly established, lawfully exercised, and consistently reviewed.

• Discipline: Professional standards and training are essential to operational effectiveness and officer safety.

• Leadership: Command exists to support personnel, safeguard the public, and ensure ethical decision-making.

• Public Trust: The confidence of the community is earned through professionalism, restraint, and accountability.
  
  

Role Within the USPD

As Chief of Police, Richard A. Coleman serves as:

• The senior executive authority of the United States Police Department

• Final approval authority for policy, operations, and discipline

• Principal advisor on legal, ethical, and operational matters

• The official representative of the USPD in governmental and interagency relations
  
  

Through his office, the United States Police Department maintains a clear command structure, a professional policing culture, and a steadfast commitment to lawful service.

Office of the Chief of Police
United States Police Department
Leadership • Authority • Accountability