Pittsburgh Police Chief Scirotto Announces Retirement

Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto announced his retirement amid controversy over his return to officiating college basketball, which he had initially agreed to forgo upon his appointment. City Council members expressed frustration, feeling misled by both Scirotto and Mayor Ed Gainey's administration, who failed to inform them about a verbal agreement allowing Scirotto to revisit refereeing after meeting certain departmental goals. Councilor Coghill criticized the lack of transparency, stating that the council learned of Scirotto's side job through media reports rather than official channels. Despite acknowledging Scirotto's successful tenure in reducing crime rates, council members were dismayed by his departure, citing the substantial resources invested in his hiring. The situation has sparked demands for clarity from the mayor's office regarding their communication practices and future plans for the police department. With the search for a new chief underway, the council is pressing for a more transparent process moving forward.