San Antonio’s new police chief, Jesse Salame, takes command with deep hometown ties and the challenge of keeping a growing city safe while earning the confidence of officers and residents demanding greater accountability.
City Manager Erik Walsh selected Salame following a nationwide search that drew 33 applicants. City Council unanimously confirmed him Sept. 10 to succeed William McManus, who retired in July after nearly two decades leading SAPD. Salame had served as acting chief since July 11.
A San Antonio native and Edison High School graduate, Salame joined SAPD in 1999. His assignments have included overseeing internal affairs, training and open records, serving as department spokesperson and working as its LGBTQ liaison. His leadership experience also includes mental health response programs…