Richmond Police Chief Gerald M. Smith overhauled his command staff this week in his first big personnel shakeup since taking office seven months ago.

On Tuesday, the chief dismissed Maj. Jody Blackwell, a 23-year veteran who served briefly as interim chief before Chief Smith’s arrival on July 1. Also dismissed were Deputy Chief John O’Kleasky, a 31-year veteran, and Maj. Roger Russell, a 37-year veteran.

The department has not officially confirmed the dismissals, but their photos and information have been removed from the Richmond Police website.

In an oblique statement that did not mention the dismissals, Chief Smith said that he had opened up opportunities “for change and growth” in the department.

The three who were dismissed played roles in the Richmond Police response to the social justice protests during the summer. Deputy Chief O’Kleasky, for example, headed patrol services.

However, their departure also could have resulted from Chief Smith’s wish to install his own team in leadership positions. Chief Smith took over during the height of the protests. He had been a deputy chief in Charlotte, N.C.

In the wake of the changes, Chief Smith promoted Capt. Rick Edwards to acting major to command Area I, which includes the East End and South Side, while Maj. Darrell Goins was promoted to the major for business services to oversee the training academy, police evidence and similar matters.

Deputy Chief Sydney G. Collier is the only sworn holdover who remains on the command staff. He directs support services and critical incident management. Two civilians also remain on the command staff, William Friday, deputy director for business services, and Victoria Pearson, deputy director of the Office of Professional Accountability.