At least one of the city's leading police critics said he was impressed by the list. Craig Futterman, a University of Chicago law professor who has long studied police misconduct, called Alexander "a proven leader" who is outspoken and "has had some success in tough places." Futterman said Alexander has the ability to command respect from the officers as well as the community.

Futterman also spoke highly of Kirkpatrick, though he wasn't as familiar with her track record. He said Spokane, however, has a national reputation for turning around a troubled police department.

Futterman said he doesn't question Williams' ethics or integrity and believes he can be effective at building trust with the community.

"I think it's an impressive pool," Futterman said. "We need a change in culture. It takes someone who is going to be strong, someone who can also deal with a strong mayor. … Each of these folks has something to be said for them."

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