Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto is set to retire from his position on Nov. 1, following a week of public scrutiny over his part-time refereeing at NCAA basketball games. In an email sent out to the local police force, comprising 751 members, Scirotto expressed that he is stepping aside "in the best interests of my officers and the department", as reported by TribLive. He wrote, "Optics matter, and my retirement is the right course for all of us."
Despite this, some local officials have conveyed their disappointment at his decision. Councilwoman Barb Warwick criticized the chief for abandoning his post at a "critical moment," particularly after proposing a new policing model. Council President R. Daniel Lavelle voiced surprise at the news, while indicating that it is uncertain whether the city will conduct a national search for Scirotto's replacement, or promote someone from within. Assistant Chief Christopher Ragland is set to become the acting chief, a move that has Lavelle's tentative backing, TribLive has reported. Meanwhile, Councilmember Bob Charland has pointed a finger at Mayor Ed Gainey, suggesting mismanagement and a string of "incompetencies."
Scirotto's career as a police chief had previously come under fire in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., with allegations of violating departmental policy related to his officiating. After assuming the role in Pittsburgh in May 2023, he faced challenges with staffing shortages and persistent crime, notably reshaping night staffing to adapt. Notably, Scirotto was the first gay and biracial individual to hold the title of chief in Pittsburgh, and had told TribLive, "What we do matters. Who we do it for matters."
As stated in a letter, as per WTAE, Scirotto affirmed his commitment to the bureau and the community it serves, having decided to retire after "25 years of dedicated service to the Bureau." His secondary career as a basketball referee, which he resumed after an initial halt during his first year as chief, became a focal point of concern and has been associated with his decision to retire. Mayor Ed Gainey also confirmed that the city's decrease in homicide rates played a role in early discussions about the chief's role and his refereeing.
