Greg O'Dell, the current Eastern Michigan University police chief and a long-time resident of Ann Arbor, has been named the next police chief at the University of Michigan, university officials announced today.

O'Dell, who has more than 31 years experience in law enforcement, will begin his new post Aug. 22, a university news release said.

He served for years with the Ann Arbor Police Department, including as deputy chief and interim chief of police. O'Dell replaces Ken Magee, who resigned after an extended period of sick leave.

Hank Baier, associate vice president for facilities and operations, announced the appointment to university police staff this morning, the release said.

"Greg is known for his integrity, openness and transparency with his community policing leadership style," Baier said. "We conducted a national search to recruit the very best candidates, and I am very pleased we found the best person for the job living in Ann Arbor."

O'Dell is a graduate of EMU and the University of Toledo College of Law. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy and EMU school for police staff and command.

O'Dell will earn a starting annual salary of $200,000, with a $30,000 hiring bonus, U-M officials said.

Interim Police Chief Joe Piersante will return to his duties as deputy chief, the release said.

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