O’Hara Resigns Under Threat Of Disciplinary Action After Second Investigation

Photo Credit: YouTube / ABC 5 Brian O’Hara Resigns

(MINNEAPOLIS, MN) - Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigned May 26, after allegations he interfered with an internal investigation regarding his possible sexual misconduct with at least one city employee. 

The allegations and pending investigation were first brought up to O’Hara last year in May, during a meeting with Mayor Jacob Frey and CSC Toddrick Barnette. When told he would need to surrender his phone for forensic imaging, investigators noticed he became visibly upset. Investigators didn’t find concrete evidence to verify sexual allegations, so the investigation was closed in July.

A witness came forward in Dec. 2025, claiming O’Hara had interfered with the initial investigation, prompting a second investigation to take place. In the second investigation, it was proven that O’Hara attempted to hide his connection to a witness involved in the investigation by deleting their contact from his work phone and violating an order not to discuss the investigation with city employees. 

Photo Credit: Jen Golbeck / AP

The findings for the second investigation were brought to Frey on May 26, and he subsequently informed O’Hara that incoming disciplinary action and termination were possible. At that point, O’Hara resigned, effective immediately. His resignation was accepted by Mayor Jacob Frey, who stated leadership at the police department is dependent on maintaining public trust.

Video Credit: YouTube / KARE 11 NBC

Frey’s statement rang flat for those, including City Council President Elliot Payne, who criticized his renomination of O’Hara for Police Chief during an active misconduct investigation. Barnette received criticism as well, with Payne noting his oversight as CSC. Frey defended his prior support, as the findings weren’t available when nominations were being accepted. Katie Blackwell has been named acting Chief of Police until a more permanent solution is found.

To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact me at kristinh@lead4earth.org.