St. Louis County Police Chief Belmar leaving department

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Photo credit Kevin Killeen/KMOX

Updated with reaction from Council Chair Lisa Clancy and more information from County Executive Sam Page's office.

CLAYTON (KMOX) -- St. Louis County police chief Jon Belmar is leaving the department. He informed staff early Monday.

The administration says the chief starting planning a year ago for his retirement.

Today, Chief Jon Belmar announced his retirement. He took over a department during difficult times. During his tenure, he created the Diversity and Inclusion Unit and obtained voter approval of Prop P, allowong police officers the raises they deserved. Thanks for your service.

— County Executive Sam Page (@DrSamPage) February 10, 2020

Belmar became chief in 2014. His time with the department stretches over almost 34 years.

A statement from a spokesman said: "He has led the Department through incredibly difficult times, like the murder of Police Officer Blake Snyder and periods of civil unrest."

Some called for Belmar's resignation after a jury awarded a gay police sergeant about $20 million in a discrimination suit.

Councilman Tim Fitch, who was chief immediately prior to Belmar's tenure, says he knows what it's like to leave such a high-stress role.

"It feels like a piano being lifted off of your chest," he says. "Even though he's had some rough times here lately, the vast majority of his time as chief and as a officer has been extremely positive for the community."

Council chair Lisa Clancy called for Belmar to quit last year after the discrimination verdict was announced. She says the department has seen " a lot of downs lately to be honest with you."

Her reaction: "This is a big opportunity to move forward with some new leadership."

Ernie Trakas, another member of the County Council, was informed by a KMOX reporter about the chief's departure.

"I think that it is another example of 'cancel culture' run amok, frankly," Trakas says. "Chief Belmar served St. Louis County admirably for many years.

Belmar, in the written statement, said: "It has been an honor to work with and for the women and men of the St. Louis County Police Department. The dedication, sacrifice, and bravery of those that work for this Department is unmatched."

KMOX requested to talk with Belmar, but was told that he won't be doing interviews until closer to his departure date.

The Board of Police Commissioners has responsibilty for choosing the department's next leader.

"There should be no influence or input from the County Council or the County Executive's office" on that decision, Fitch says.

Meantime, a statement from Page says: "I have already begun discussing future leadership with members of the Police Board and I look forward to working with them as the next Police Chief is chosen. This is an opportunity for an open dialogue about the future of the Police Department. I am confident that future will be built on a strong foundation that already exists."

KMOX's Maria Keena contributed to this report.

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