Following the surprise announcement today of Dallas Police Chief David Brown’s retirement, city and state officials have issued statements thanking him for his 33 years of service. A statement was released by Chief Brown who is on vacation and not available for comment until Sept. 8. According to Mayor Mike Rawlings, discussions were underway about his retirement before the tragic shootings in July which left five officers murdered by a sniper.
His handling of the crisis garnered Chief Brown compliments from around the country including from President Barack Obama who visited the city to honor the slain officers. The fact the New York Times quickly posted a story today when Brown’s retirement statement was released spoke of how Brown’s stature has risen.
Chief Brown’s retirement is effective Oct. 22. The city has announced Assistant Chief David Pughes will serve as interim until a replacement for Brown is hired.
Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said he wish Chief Brown was remaining until 2019 when his tenure as mayor will end. However, he pointed out how the police force had changed during Brown’s tenure:
“Chief Brown has led at a time when the demographics of the city have been changing as well. His sworn force is reflective of the community it serves. For the first time, DPD’s staff is a majority, minority,” according to Rawlings.
Statewide recognition for Chief Brown
“Over the past three decades, Chief Brown has been dedicated to preserving the safety of others. At no time was his exemplary leadership more evident than in the aftermath of the heinous shooting of law enforcement officers this July in Dallas. Thanks to his unwavering commitment to protecting his community, Dallas has emerged even stronger, and on behalf of the entire State of Texas, Cecilia and I thank him for his service.” —– Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), Chairman of the House Rules Committee:
“For the past 33 year, Chief Brown has bravely served and selflessly committed his life to protecting the great people of Dallas, Texas. In the face of terror and horrific events he was a fearless leader who served as a voice of reason as well as a symbol of the strength and unity of our community. I am sincerely thankful for his unwavering service and dedication to our community, state, and nation.”
