By Joanna Putman
Police1
PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto has announced his retirement, effective Nov. 1, after a total of nearly 25 years with the department, WPXI reported.
In a letter addressed to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Scirotto said his decision was made in the best interest of the department and his officers, according to the report.
Scirotto, who recently returned to his role as a collegiate basketball referee, acknowledged in a memo obtained by WPXI that media attention surrounding his dual roles had become a distraction.
“Recently, there has been substantial media coverage surrounding my dual role as a collegiate basketball official and the Chief of Police,” Scirotto wrote. “While I have enjoyed this work and look forward to my upcoming officiating commitments, I recognize that this visibility has become a distraction for the department. I want to let you know that I have not given in to the opinions of a few individuals or the public’s perception; instead, I am making this decision to prioritize the integrity and focus of our department. Optics matter, and my retirement is the right course for all of us.”
His departure follows a decision by the City Council to hold a public hearing regarding his refereeing, according to the report. Assistant Chief Thomas Stangrecki will serve as interim chief while the city seeks a permanent replacement.
