Todd McAlister is a seasoned public safety leader and community advocate with more than 15 years of dedicated service to the City of Buffalo. As Police Chief of the E District for the Buffalo Police Department, he leads district operations, strategic policing initiatives, and community engagement efforts across Buffalo’s East Side. In this role, Chief McAlister works closely with residents, community organizations, and local leaders to strengthen public safety while building trust and collaboration throughout the community.

Throughout his career, Chief McAlister has championed a leadership approach that bridges public safety with community empowerment. Prior to his current role, he served as Director of Community Relations for the Buffalo Police Department, where he developed and led citywide outreach strategies that fostered meaningful partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, healthcare institutions, and local businesses. His work has been instrumental in creating open dialogue and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and Buffalo’s diverse neighborhoods.

Chief McAlister is also the co-founder of Children Overcoming Police Stereotypes through Sports (COPSS), an innovative youth initiative designed to build positive relationships between young people and law enforcement through athletics, mentorship, and community engagement. Through this initiative, he has helped establish impactful partnerships with Buffalo Public Schools and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, providing youth with opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and personal growth.

Earlier in his career, Chief McAlister served as Chief of Staff for the Buffalo Common Council, where he managed legislative operations and supported policy initiatives that impacted the city’s growth and development. He has also contributed to higher education as an Adjunct Professor and Athletic Marketing Director at Erie Community College, further demonstrating his commitment to education, mentorship, and leadership development.

A lifelong advocate for Buffalo’s East Side, Chief McAlister remains deeply committed to supporting youth development, strengthening neighborhoods, and advancing collaborative solutions that promote opportunity, equity, and long-term community growth.

He holds a Master of Science in Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from Canisius University and is a graduate of the Policing Leadership Academy at the University of Chicago.