Charlottesville police chief retires after criticism over white nationalist rally
The first African-American police chief of Charlottesville, Virginia, abruptly retired Monday, about two weeks after a scathing independent review criticized his "slow-footed response" to violence at a white nationalist rally this summer.
In a brief statement, the city did not give a reason for Chief Al Thomas' departure, which was effective immediately.
"Nothing in my career has brought me more pride than serving as the police chief for the city of Charlottesville," Thomas, 50, said in the statement. "I will be forever grateful for having had the opportunity to protect and serve a community I love so dearly."
Earlier this month, a former federal prosecutor hired by the city released a report that was sharply critical of Thomas and other law enforcement officials.
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