By Sarah Roebuck
Police1
AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Police Department’s Chief Joseph Chacon is retiring from his position after dedicating 25 years to the department, including a two-year tenure as its top leader, KXAN reports.
According to an official statement from the City of Austin, Chacon informed Interim City Manager Jesús Garza, the mayor, the council and his colleagues at APD about his decision to retire. His retirement will take effect during the first week of September.
“Chief Chacon has certainly made an impressive mark on the city with his effort to move the police department in new directions,” Garza told KXAN. “We will miss his leadership and dedication, but are confident that the team he leaves behind will be able to further the great efforts he started.”
Chacon expressed that his time at APD has been a profound privilege, stating that “becoming the chief of police was a goal I never deemed achievable and it stands as the zenith of my professional journey.”
Chacon took to social media to share a comprehensive statement, revealing his retirement “with a heavy heart.” He stated that he was leaving the department on his own terms.
“Working at APD with you, the sworn and civilian men and women of this amazing department, has been the privilege of my life. Being the Chief of Police is something that I never thought would have been possible, and it has been the pinnacle of my career and an absolute honor to serve you,” Chacon said during a press conference. “I know that all of you will continue on this journey and will make the city proud in your service. Please hold your heads up, keep fighting the good fight and honor the profession by keeping the citizens of this city safe. Thank you for making this department look so good through your tireless and selfless service, and for making this one of the safest big cities in the country.”
Robin Henderson, currently the chief of staff at APD, will assume the role of interim police chief starting the initial week of September. This arrangement will continue until a new permanent chief is found, as confirmed by the city. Henderson was named assistant police chief in 2020, then promoted to chief of staff in 2021.