New accountability position created at Knoxville Police Department

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - On Tuesday, the Knoxville City Council voted to approve the creation of a new job at the Knoxville Police Department.

Officials said the new position, Deputy Director of Professional Standards, will help KPD oversee complaints, internal investigations and cultural change.

The new job is another change implemented by Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel. Since his arrival in Knoxville in June of 2022, Noel has outlined his passion for transparency and ethical policing.

Previous coverage: Knoxville Police Chief recaps first 7 months on the job, outlines goals for 2023

The non-sworn, executive-level job will focus on police, practices and procedures.

Noel said the position would add another layer of review.