GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom is moving to a warmer climate, literally and figuratively.
Winstrom will now serve as the chief of police in Pensacola, Florida. However, his parting words paint a picture of what it’s like when politicians play politics with police departments.
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“A police chief’s job gets a lot easier when a city is just 100% pro-police,” Winstrom said at his final press conference in Grand Rapids. “When you politicize policing, that’s a recipe for failure.” Winstrom added that he’s seen politicians try to score “cheap political points” by positioning themselves as anti-law enforcement.
WOW: The departing Police Chief just confirmed he was FRUSTRATED by the anti-cop sentiment here in Grand Rapids.
He specifically calls out city leadership for refusing to see police in a positive light.
“Have I seen that here? One hundred percent,” he said. pic.twitter.com/z3jdAr5TO7
— Grand Rapids Businessman (@GR_businessman) February 6, 2026
Winstrom came on board as the Grand Rapids’ police chief in March 2022. During his tenure, the Grand Rapids Police Department increased its number of sworn officers from 260 to 312. Previously, Winstrom worked for more than two decades with the Chicago Police Department.
The city of Pensacola said Winstrom will start on March 2, pending city council approval.
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Winstrom added it’s been an honor to serve Grand Rapids. He issued a statement to the media, saying “This city and its residents will always hold a special place in my heart. Together, we have made significant progress in strengthening trust, advancing constitutional policing, and ensuring that every resident feels safe.” He added, “While I am excited for this next chapter in Pensacola, I will remain fully engaged here until my last day.”
