Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott to Resign in May

Update, 3:49 p.m.: Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott will resign May 1. 

Scott spoke publicly Monday for the first time since he took an indefinite personal leave of absence three weeks ago. 

Scott - who spoke through tears during part of his statement - said he has been going through counseling for stress-related issues and doesn't want his personal struggles to take away from the police department's work. 

"I can tell you that over a month ago, I began to realize that things were eating at me," he said. 

He shared about losing a young deputy who he hired when he was at the Richland County Sheriff's Department. Deputy Keith Cannon died in 2005 in a wreck while on duty. 

Scott, who was with Cannon just a few hours before the wreck, said he still struggles with that loss.

"We were leaving a police officer memorial and that's an ironic day," he said, "because two hours later, that same young man that I hired died."

He also said the everyday stresses of running the police department have negatively impacted his personal life.

"I've worked hard every night and day to make sure this department functions," he said. "What I didn't realize is that by doing that I focused and concentrated more than I should have. I am a law enforcement officer, but I also have a family." 

Ruben Santiago, who was named acting chief while Scott was on leave, will serve as interim chief until the city can start a search for the position.

City officials say they will start the search process for a new chief in about 60 days.

Original story, 2:44 p.m.: Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott is expected to announce his resignation during a 3 p.m. press conference, according to a report from WIS. 

About three weeks ago, Scott went on an indefinite leave of absence for personal reasons. No other explanation was offered for his decision.

Public information officers with the Columbia Police Department and the City of Columbia wouldn't confirm Scott's resignation to Patch Monday afternoon.

The press conference will be held at the Columbia Police Department headquarters.

Check back with Patch for an update.