Eagan Officially Welcomes New Police Chief Salim Omari, Bringing Decades of Leadership and Community-Focused Experience
Credit: City of Eagan/Facebook
Published: December 4, 2025.
EAGAN, MINNESOTA— The City of Eagan has officially appointed Salim Omari as its new police chief following his swearing-in at the Tuesday, December 2, 2025, City Council meeting. Chief Omari assumes the role immediately, bringing more than 21 years of law enforcement experience and a distinguished record of leadership across multiple police divisions and statewide initiatives.
According to the City of Eagan, Chief Omari began his law enforcement career in 2004 with the Bloomington Police Department. In 2007, he joined the St. Paul Police Department, where he served for nearly two decades in a wide range of operational, investigative, and leadership capacities. His work spanned patrol, major crimes, internal affairs, training, gang investigations, and district command roles, providing a depth of experience highlighted by his reputation for steady, thoughtful leadership.
The City of Eagan states that throughout his career, Omari has held key positions including Gang Unit investigator, Internal Affairs Unit leader, Training Unit commander, and Western District Patrol supervisor. He later served more than two years as district chief of St. Paul’s Eastern District and most recently led the Major Crimes Division while also serving as SWAT commander.
Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire praised the appointment during Tuesday’s meeting, highlighting the expertise and perspective Omari brings to the community.
“We’re excited to welcome Commander Omari to Eagan,” Maguire said. “He brings a strong record of leadership, experience in complex policing environments, and a commitment to building trust with the community. His thoughtful approach to public safety and team development will serve our residents well.”
Chief Omari echoed that emphasis on partnership and engagement during remarks following his swearing-in.
“I’m honored to be chosen to lead the highly respected Eagan Police Department,” Omari said. “I believe in the power of collaboration and community engagement to keep our neighborhoods safe. Eagan is a thriving community, and I look forward to working alongside residents, city leaders, and officers to continue building trust and delivering excellent public safety.”
In addition to his local service, Omari has contributed to public safety efforts statewide. He has served as deputy commander of the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association Honor Guard and was recognized nationally as an IACP “40 Under 40” honoree. Both former Gov. Mark Dayton and current Gov. Tim Walz appointed him to the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission — reflecting his respected voice in statewide criminal justice policy.
Chief Omari holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in police leadership and administration from the University of St. Thomas. He is also a graduate of the prestigious James P. Shannon Leadership Institute, which cultivates principled, values-driven leaders in public service.
City Administrator Dianne Miller underscored the city’s confidence in its new chief, noting Omari’s blend of operational knowledge, integrity, and commitment to inclusive policing.
“Commander Omari has a proven track record of effective leadership, operational excellence, and a clear commitment to equity and community engagement,” Miller said. “We’re confident he will continue Eagan’s strong tradition of public safety and help shape its next chapter.”
Chief Omari now leads the Eagan Police Department as it continues its focus on community partnerships, proactive crime prevention, and innovative public safety strategies to serve the city’s growing and diverse population.
Credit: City of Eagan.
Written by: Will Wight
