Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto Announces Retirement
Published on October 25, 2024
Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto Announces Retirement
Scirotto to step down November 1, 2024.
Pittsburgh, PA – Yesterday, Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto informed Mayor Ed Gainey and Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt of his concerns regarding increased scrutiny on his family surrounding the release of the news he would be returning to college basketball as a referee. This morning via a letter, Chief Scriotto informed the Mayor and Director of his intention to retire, effective Friday, November 1, 2024.
In a separate email to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Chief Scirotto stated:
"Serving as your Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Over the past 25 years, I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and professionalism you exhibit daily in your roles. Your commitment to ensuring our city's and community's safety does not go unnoticed, and I am incredibly proud to stand alongside such talented and brave individuals. Each of you embodies the spirit of public service, and I have always considered you my extended family.
It is crucial to remember that the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police is more significant than any one individual. The true strength of our organization lies in the collective character, resilience, and commitment of every one of you. Your daily efforts build trust within our community and create a safe environment for all. I am proud of the culture we have made, and I am confident it will continue to thrive," wrote Scriotto.
"While we are sad that we're losing a capable, creative, and dynamic leader in Chief Scirotto, we have great confidence in current Chief of Administration, Chris Ragland, who will take over as Acting Chief when he retires," said Public Safety Director, Lee Schmidt.
"Assistant Chief Ragland and the current command staff members are all highly-skilled leaders in their own right, adept at guiding the Bureau in the chief's absence. We wish Chief Scirotto all the best and thank him for the enormous contributions he's made to the City of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Police. We are grateful that the changes and improvements he's made during his tenure as chief have put the Bureau on track for continued success and we know that the city and the department are in good hands," said Schmidt.
The Department of Public Safety will now reevaluate the current command structure and corresponding salaries, given Chief Scirotto's departure. A final determination on remuneration regarding the affected positions will be reflected in the City's 2025 operating budget.
The Department of Public Safety's Public Information Office will provide additional information regarding Chief Scirotto's retirement should it become available.
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Cara Cruz
Public Information Officer
Public Safety
cara.cruz@pittsburghpa.gov