PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Philadelphia Police Department’s second-in-command is abruptly retiring due to a health concern, according to the commissioner.
Mel Singleton has been with the department since 1993. He rose through the ranks, becoming the first deputy commissioner shortly after Danielle Outlaw took over as the police commissioner in February 2020.
In a tweet, Outlaw said Singleton has suddenly retired due to a “health issue.”
“His dedication to serving the citizens of Philadelphia is unmatched,” she said, adding he is “a brave and strong individual.”
“Both he and his family will need our thoughts, prayers and support as he begins this journey,” she continued, stopping short of disclosing what the health issue is.
Singleton was often seen leading the charge during summer protests over racial injustice. He spoke with young demonstrators, listened intently to their concerns as they marched, and asked them what they thought could be done differently. Then, he thanked them for sharing their experiences.
“He has tirelessly worked to improve relations between the community and police and advance patrol responses within varying communities,” Outlaw added.
She said she will not yet announce who will take his place, but others in her administration will take over his duties for now.