At a press conference held on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, at City Hall, Mayor-Elect Daria Devlin introduced the first wave of hires for her incoming administration. The announcement took place in Room 500 and highlighted several critical leadership positions that will shape the city’s future.
Lori Radder Spicer has been named Chief of Staff. Spicer brings a wealth of experience in organizational leadership, community engagement, and operations. She served as Campaign Manager for Mayor-Elect Devlin’s successful mayoral campaign and previously held senior roles in nonprofit and community-based organizations, where she managed teams, grants, finances, and internal systems.
Richard E. Lorah will assume the role of Police Chief. Lorah’s appointment follows a distinguished 27-year career with the Erie Police Department. He currently serves as Deputy Chief of Police in the Criminal Investigations Division and has held numerous leadership positions, including Captain of the Patrol Division, Homicide Supervisor, Major Crimes Detective, Saturation Unit Supervisor, and Field Training Officer.
Jamie Russo has been appointed Deputy Chief of Police for the Patrol Division. Russo brings 27 years of law enforcement experience and currently serves as Acting Deputy Chief of the Patrol Division. His previous roles include Lieutenant Community Outreach and Event Coordinator, Sergeant in the Saturation Unit, and Saturation Unit Officer.
Ken Kensill will serve as Deputy Chief of Police for the Criminal Investigations Division. Kensill has dedicated 28 years to the Erie Police Department and currently leads the Crime Scene and Evidence Unit as a Lieutenant. His career includes positions as Sergeant in the Training Unit, Crime Scene Supervisor, Crime Scene Investigator, and SWAT Operator.
Chris Janus has been named Deputy Chief of the Office of Professional Standards. Janus, a 27-year veteran of the Erie Police Department, currently serves as Deputy Chief and Inspector of Internal Affairs. His prior experience includes roles as Lieutenant Technology Coordinator, Homicide Supervisor, Major Crimes Detective, and Supervisor in the Saturation Unit.
Kevin Fries will take on the role of Captain in the Patrol Division. Fries has served the Erie Police Department for 26 years and is currently the Patrol Group II Lieutenant. His previous positions include Sergeant in the Patrol Division, Corporal and Field Training Officer in the Field Training Unit, and SWAT Operator.
Tom Lenox has been appointed Captain of Community Policing and Recruitment, a newly created position. Lenox brings over 20 years of experience with the Erie Police Department and currently serves as Lieutenant PAL Coordinator. His background includes roles as Sergeant for Erie PALS, member of the Neighborhood Action Team, SWAT Operator, and SWAT Team Leader.
These appointments mark a significant step in building a strong leadership team for Mayor-Elect Devlin’s administration, emphasizing experience, community engagement, and operational excellence.