Dallas Police Chief David Brown, who oversaw the response to a July sniper attack that killed five officers, has announced his retirement.
Brown issued a statement Thursday saying he will retire Oct. 22 after 33 years with Dallas police. He was not immediately available for additional comment.
Brown says he was prompted to become an officer in 1983 by a crack cocaine epidemic in a Dallas neighborhood. He was named police chief in 2010.
He’s drawn criticism from Dallas police unions for not doing enough to retain many officers who have left for better pay elsewhere. But his leadership following the July 7 shooting deaths of the officers drew praise from President Barack Obama and others.
Below is Chief Brown’s statement on his retirement:
After much prayer, I am announcing my retirement from the Dallas Police Department after 33 years as a Dallas police officer. My retirement will be effective October 22, 2016.
Serving the citizens of Dallas in this noble profession has been both a true honor and a humbling experience.
Thank you to Mayors, City Managers and Dallas City Council members past and present for allowing me to serve. Thank you for the service you have provided for this great city.
I became a Dallas cop in 1983 because of the crack cocaine epidemic’s impact on my neighborhood in Oak Cliff. I wanted to be part of the solution. Since that time I have taken great pride in knowing that we have always been part of the solution and helped to make Dallas the world class city it is today.
Let’s always remember the fallen officers including the five officers on July 7, 2016, and the brave men and women of the Dallas Police Department for their sacrifices to keep Dallas safe. Their memory will remain with all of us forever. I know the people of Dallas will never forget the ultimate sacrifice they made on the streets of our city that awful night.
Officers, your extraordinary service will forever be etched in my heart and will serve as a guidepost for me in the next phase of my life. You will always be in my prayers.
I want to thank my family for their love and support.
This is a difficult decision. I pray for your understanding and well wishes.
Finally, I want to acknowledge my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for my life, health, and strength. I pray for His continued blessings over my life.
Thank you Dallas and God bless!!
~Chief David O. Brown
#DallasStrong
Note: I will be unavailable until September 8, 2016. I will hold a press conference on that date; the time to be determined.
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