Deputy Chief Michele Bang announced today she is retiring in July from the Omaha Police Department. Her last working day will be May 31st. Michele has accepted a position as Deputy Director at Project Harmony, the Child Advocacy Center serving the Omaha Metropolitan area. Deputy Chief Bang began her career as an officer in 1993 and worked at Project Harmony, then located at 71st and F Street, from 1998 – 2003 as a detective and field sergeant in the Child Victim Sexual Assault Unit. Prior to being an officer she taught 7th grade math and science at Millard Central Middle School.
“Project Harmony is thrilled to welcome Michele Bang as Deputy Director – continuing her service that began with Project Harmony decades ago,” said Project Harmony Executive Director Gene Klein. “Michele understands the lasting impact that crimes against children have on everyone involved – the child, the family, the community and those who respond. She not only has the experience, skills, and leadership this role requires, but Michele also brings passion, determination, and heart to our work on behalf of all children and families. I look forward to working alongside Michele into the next phase of growth and development for Project Harmony.”
Deputy Chief Bang currently commands the Police Services Bureau, overseeing several department support functions, including Air Support, Behavioral Health and Wellness, Forensic Investigations, Police Personnel, Fleet and Facilities, Mobile Technology, Customer Services and the budget. Deputy Chief Bang has been involved in developing a number of programs and initiatives at OPD, to include the Peer Support Program, Co-Responder Program and the Restorative Justice Project.
“Michele was the consummate team player and professional. her leadership within the OPD will be missed, but her legacy initiatives of behavioral health and restorative justice will live on. Project Harmony is a great partner with the OPD and I am proud of Michele and I know her impact on Project Harmony will be excellent.”
When asked about why now, Deputy Chief Bang said “It has been an absolute honor to serve the citizens of Omaha as an OPD cop and I could not be more proud of the work I have done alongside some of the most dedicated women and men in the law enforcement profession and City of Omaha. Each day provided me an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. Many of the projects I have been passionate about are now fully operational and the opportunity to continue serving the Omaha community at Project Harmony presented itself at a time when retirement at OPD was nearing. The OPD is in a great position, with lots of talent ready to take the helm. Working at Project Harmony allows me to get closer to the work I truly love, helping children. So while it is not the perfect time, it is the right time to retire and I am hopeful I left the department just a little bit better than when I started the job.”
Deputy Chief Bang will officially start at Project Harmony on July 11th, where she will oversee all preventative and response services.
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