Philadelphia Police Commissioner Announces Retirement

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey announced his retirement at a press conference in City Hall Wednesday morning, effective in January.

His last day will be January 7, 2016, eight years to the day since he took office in 2008.

“I am deeply grateful for your support in helping make Philadelphia a safer city,” he said on Twitter. “A leader is only as good as the people working for him & I thank every member in my department for their hard work.”

Leaders from across the city and region expressed their gratitude for Ramsey’s service in the wake of the announcement.

“Philadelphia is very lucky to have benefited from the talent & dedication of Commissioner Ramsey, he’s the best,” said Mayor Michael Nutter, during a press conference which eyewitnesses called “emotional.”

This is a breaking story. More updates will be posted as they become available.

Image courtesy City of Philadelphia.