Boston Foundation salutes retiring Police Comm. Evans, congratulates incoming Comm. Gross
Dear Editor:
We at the Boston Foundation applaud Commissioner Evans for his hard work not just as Commissioner, but in a career spanning nearly four decades as a member of the Boston Police Department. His hard work, dedication, and leadership skills have made him a respected, admired presence in Boston, at a time after the city’s resolve was challenged by the Boston Marathon bombings.
We are also pleased to welcome superintendent-in-chief William Gross to the Commissioner’s role. Not only is his appointment historic, as he becomes the first African-American Police Commissioner in Boston history, it is well-deserved. Superintendent Gross, too, is no stranger to the people of Boston’s neighborhoods. Both he and the man he is replacing have spent countless hours not just patrolling the streets, but connecting with the community at fairs, community events, children’s gatherings, and dozens of other events across the city. They have both placed a strong emphasis on building community, and under Commissioner Gross, we look forward to continuing our work with BPD and the city.
Boston Foundation President and CEO Paul S. Grogan
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On the Role of Commissioner
Dear Editor:
The Boston Police Commissioner’s job is a massive and multi-faceted management responsibility, but Bill Evans approached it with a deeply personal touch. His love for the city and its residents is matched only by his pride in the department he’s served for almost 40 years. As Superintendent-in-Chief, Willie Gross has shown that very same commitment to serving the city’s residents with the finest police force in the country. I have every confidence in his leadership and I commend Mayor Walsh for this decision.
“We’ve all seen Commissioner Evans on television or at a crime scene after something terrible happens. But we’ve also seen him in every neighborhood of the city for park openings, church services, and flashlight walks, night and day, when there wasn’t a camera in sight. He’s deeply connected with the schools, churches, businesses, and people who make Boston what it is. Those connections have strengthened the relationship between residents and law enforcement and he should take great pride in that accomplishment.
“Superintendent Gross has shown that very same devotion to the city’s residents and has decades of his own experience to guide him. Having worked with Willie for many years, I know he brings the highest traditions of law enforcement to the job along with a modern view of policing and community engagement. He will be an outstanding leader in his own right and has my full support moving forward.
“Commissioner Evans wanted the very best for people of Boston, and he gave them a police force that really leads the nation at a critical time in our city’s history. His unassuming demeanor masks a leader who was fiercely committed to leading a department that would embody the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and innovation and it made him one of the very best partners we as prosecutors could ask for. It has been my privilege and blessing to work with Bill Evans. I’m sorry to see him go, but he leaves the Boston Police Department in very good hands with Commissioner Gross. Both men have my best and warmest wishes as they take on their new responsibilities.
District Attorney Dan Conley
Suffolk County