ST. LOUIS – A night of honor and celebration for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, as 50 officers are promoted in rank during a badge ceremony at St. Louis University High School.
The ceremony comes during a pivotal time for St. Louis. According to the SLMPD statistics, homicides are down 43%, and total person crimes are down 15% since 2023. Both the mayor and police chief credited these achievements to the commitment of the officers being promoted.
City leaders, colleagues, and officers’ families gathered to celebrate and attend the proceedings.
Mayor Tishaura Jones acknowledged the sacrifices the officers’ families make every day, especially considering the recent loss of Officer David Lee, who was laid to rest last month. Chief Robert Tracy reminded the newly promoted officers that public service is both a challenge and a privilege, encouraging them to continue engaging with the community.
“I’m actually as thrilled as the family is about this organization and the way that we’re going,” Tracy said. “And honoring those who help us lead the department.”
The promotions follow rigorous effort after each officer underwent a series of challenging tests and interviews.
A family member stated how Tuesday night’s ceremony was a reminder of the dedication these officers bring to their roles every day and their ongoing commitment to making St. Louis a safer city.
FOX 2’s own Mandy Murphey served as emcee, celebrating not only the officers’ achievements but also a milestone for the department: 50 years since its first female officer was promoted to sergeant and its first female police commissioner was appointed.