According to a report first from KDKA-TV, Mayor Ed Gainey’s pick to lead the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police into the future has withdrawn his name from consideration.
Reporter Andy Sheehan says that acting Police Chief Christopher Ragland is leaving the department as well.
KDKA Radio has confirmed the report.
KDKA Radio has also obtained a letter sent by Ragland to officers and said, in part, “It is time for the next generation of leaders to guide this organization.”
KDKA Radio's Marty Griffin reports that Martin Devine has been tapped to serve as acting chief.
Sheehan adds that “Ragland became frustrated with the process and feared the vote would be delayed until after the May primary, putting his future in doubt.”
Ragland has reportedly already stepped down and will officially leave later in the summer, but had enough personal time off to step away until then.
Pittsburgh City Council delayed a vote on Ragland’s nomination, approving a public hearing to give residence the opportunity to share their priorities for a new chief.
Some Council members say negative feedback from constituents about the mayor’s deal to allow former police chief Larry Scirotto to referee basketball games, something kept from Council, is also a factor in the decision to delay a vote.
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In addition, the chair of the city’s GOP Committee, once a Pittsburgh Police officer himself, says Interim Chief Ragland lacks support among some rank and file officers.