Charlie Beck, the son of a police officer whose own career with the Los Angeles Police Department spanned four decades, announced Friday that he will retire early, ending an eight-year tenure as police chief before finishing out the remainder of his second term.
Beck made the abrupt announcement during a press conference Friday with Mayor Eric Garcetti to discuss the city’s crime trends. His retirement is effective June 27, KTLA reports.
Beck, 64, was sworn in as chief in 2009, an appointee of then-Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa who had the backing of the rank-and-file officers.
Serving the citizens of Los Angeles for over 40 years has been the honor of a lifetime. Leading the men and women of the #LAPD -my family- has been a privilege I never thought I’d be worthy of. Today, I am announcing my retirement effective June 27th of this year.
— Chief Charlie Beck (@LAPDChiefBeck) January 19, 2018
Beck said in a tweet, "The department is ready for fresh eyes to take our organization to even higher levels." He also pledged to "work hard" every day until he leaves the office.
