Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond will retire on November 29. Thurmond announced the news on Thursday, thanking Mayor Randall Woodfin for the opportunity.
“After 26 years of service and much thought and prayer, I have decided to retire from the Birmingham Police Department,” Thurmond said at a press conference. “I began this discussion with my family four to five months ago, and my family has always been an integral part of my career, and I must also continue to put them first in my life.”
“As my family and I continue on this journey through life together, it is time for this chapter to close and another to begin,” he added. “I have served the citizens of Birmingham, the Birmingham Police Department, for over half of my life and am forever grateful for all the friends and memories.”
Thurmond’s last day will be November 29, which he said is fitting because his first day was November 9, 1998.
Deputy chief of special operations Michael Pickett was named interim police chief and Captain Edmond Hanks was appointed interim assistant police chief. Thurmond said he will work to ensure a seamless transition.
The Birmingham Police Department has been under the microscope following a mass shooting at Five Points South and a string of shootings. Although Thurmond recently said new initiatives will help with hiring and retention, the department has been understaffed, leading to challenges solving crimes.
“I have had a lot of thought about this, and this is just something that I have decided to do,” Thurmond added. “The time is right. There are many positive things that are going for the city and the City of Birmingham right now. I feel that the Police Department will be in very good hands moving forward.”
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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