After 7 Months On The Job, Sarasota's Police Chief Retires

SARASOTA, FL — Police Chief James Rieser will retire from the city of Sarasota effective Wednesday at 5 p.m., the Sarasota Police Department said in a news release.

The chief said he is stepping down due to “unexpected health issues.”

City Manager Marlon Brown will announce the appointment of an interim chief later Wednesday.

Rieser has held the position since January. He was appointed to replace former Chief Bernadette DiPino, who suddenly resigned after a complaint was filed following a joke she made about Tasering a mentally ill homeless man who heckled officers during a Nov. 18 Sarasota Opera performance outside Sarasota police headquarters.

“Because of recent unexpected health issues and after much consideration and reflection, I have submitted my retirement. I have been honored and humbled to serve as the chief of police for the past seven months,” Rieser said. “It’s been an honor to serve this beautiful community I consider paradise over the past 29 years. The professionalism, integrity and level of service of the men and women of the Sarasota Police Department are above and beyond what any leader could ask for.”

Rieser joined SPD in April 1992. Since joining the agency, he’s served in the patrol, professional standards, narcotics and criminal investigations divisions.

During his service, he was awarded a Life-Saving Medal, Distinguished Service Medal and Meritorious Service Medal and also received several commendations.