A new era in Chester: Commissioner Katrina Blackwell shatters the glass ceiling

A Black woman now leads the Police Department of the only city in Delaware County.

- Lorraine Lavender-Sams

In a historic move, Chester Mayor Stefan Roots has appointed Chester native and 21-year police veteran, and interim Police Commissioner, Katrina Blackwell, to the permanent Office of the Police Commissioner of the City of Chester.

Blackwell makes history as the first Black woman to lead the City of Chester's Police Department. A mainstay in the city, Blackwell is a constant presence in neighborhoods throughout Chester and is highly regarded by its residents.

Blackwell was appointed interim Police Commissioner in January, following the retirement of Steven Gretsky. She's been an integral part of the partnerships that led to Chester's zero homicide rate over the past summer.