Lando Selected as O’Connor’s Top Choice for Police Chief Role

On June 3, 2017, the New Pittsburgh Courier documented an engaging event where Black youth participated in chess matches alongside Pittsburgh Police officers. While children delighted in various games, parents gathered vital community information from present organizations. This gathering, known as the “Zone 5 Community Day Open House,” took place outside the Pittsburgh Police Zone 5 station on Washington Boulevard, East Liberty. During the event, the Courier captured an interview with Zone 5 police commander, Jason Lando, who emphasized the significance of police-community connections, expressing, "Our officers are DJing, grilling... it’s a great way to foster trust and reduce stress between officers and the public." Lando, who became Pittsburgh's Chief of Police, was nominated by mayor-elect Corey O’Connor on November 13. With years of service, including leading the Narcotics and Vice unit, Lando seeks to enhance community relations and address crime challenges in Pittsburgh, especially in the South Side Entertainment District.