Knoxville, TN (WOKI) The woman behind some big changes within the Knoxville Police Department is stepping down from her position in July.

KPD today announced that Brooklyn Belk will step away from her role as the Department’s Deputy Chief of Professional Standards effective July 16th.

Belk was named to the new position in February; despite her short time on the job, she is credited with helping to better the internal investigations process, initiating multiple innovative department-wide training opportunities, and chairing the internal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion working group.

Knoxville Police Department Chief Paul Noel praised the University of Tennessee law professor and former federal prosecutor.

“I am truly grateful to Brooklyn for her contributions, which were significant,” said Noel. “She invested a lot in our department and quickly became a valued and trusted member of our executive leadership team. Brooklyn leaves behind big shoes to fill.”

City of Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon also thanked Belk for her efforts over the last five months.

“I want to thank Brooklyn for all that she has accomplished in a short amount of time,” said Kincannon. “The changes that she has helped implement in the last few months have contributed to a stronger foundation for a more efficient and accountable police force.  I wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.”

In today’s release from the Department, Belk offered thanks and praise of her own, noting that she would remain available in a consulting role if and when needed.

“Law enforcement’s roles as both protector and servant are vital to a thriving and safe community. I appreciate Chief Noel and Mayor Kincannon for the opportunity to use my expertise to make real contributions to this work at the Knoxville Police Department. As I move forward to the next steps in my career as an advocate, litigator, and educator, I will continue to be a resource for the KPD leadership team and my predecessor, if ever called upon, and look forward to seeing the Police Department grow and prosper with this community under the Mayor and Chief Noel’s leadership. I will miss those with whom I worked most closely. I wish the entire team, civilian and uniformed staff, particularly the Office of Professional Standards’ Captain Brian Evans and his team, great success and safety.“

The process of identifying and selecting Belk’s successor is underway. Qualified applicants from across the country will be considered for the position, which is appointed by the Chief of Police.