New Public Safety chief has confidence in interim Chief Hite

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Troy Riggs accepted Mayor Greg Ballard's appointment as Indianapolis new public safety director.

The Louisville, Ky. native started as a patrol officer for Louisville Police Department.

After a 20 year career, he moved to Corpus Christi Texas where he became the chief of police and later the town's Assistant City Manager.

"I am a newcomer," said Riggs, "but I do understand Indianapolis. I understand the culture."

Riggs recalled times he and his wife would take vacations to Indy when they lived in Louisville.

He also touched on pressing issues facing the public safety department, such as the future of Interim Police Chief Rick Hite.

Riggs says Mayor Ballard is confidant in Hite and that there is no reason to remove Hite anytime soon.

"Let me be here permanently and get busy working, and I will have more discussions with the mayor, said Riggs.

There was one glaring issue that Riggs believes needs to be addressed.

He believes there is not enough patrol officers on the streets. Currently the city is facing a looming budget deficit, and there is no new recruiting class in sight. Riggs admits he doesn't have that answer but wants to learn more from those who will be affected.

"We are going to sit down with FOP, residents and civilian employees," said Riggs.

The new director’s answers appear to have the Fraternal Order of Police's approval.

"I'm very optimistic. I’m pleased with what he was saying and his philosophy, "said FOP President Bill Owensby.

Riggs’ last day as Assistant City Manager in Corpus Christi, Texas is Sept. 28. He is scheduled to start in Indianapolis Oct. 29.