Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto has stepped back onto the basketball court as a referee, a move that has left many questioning his capacity to manage the dual roles effectively. Scirotto, who was previously quoted in May 2023 professing his commitment to the city over his love for the game, seems to have reversed his stance. WPXI reported, with footage as evidence, that he officiated a game between Michigan State and Northern Michigan in Marquette, which has sparked concern among veteran officers and members of the police union.
The department itself is grappling with manpower shortages, down by more than a hundred officers. In a statement made by the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Citizen Police Review Board, Beth Pittinger expressed "They’re dealing and absorbing all these different changes. Their patrol practices, policing practices, who does what, when and where, and now their Chief isn’t going to be there all the time and I think it’s a morale problem, a serious one," Pittinger stated, as per WPXI. This sentiment echoes the unease shared by the Fraternal Order of Police, highlighting the contentious decision to allow what they perceive as a part-time Chief of Police at a critical moment.
In the face of opposition, Scirotto has revealed a planned system to ensure no lapse in police leadership while he is on the court. He'll be using his own time for refereeing to avoid any cost to the city. He has designated Assistant Chief Chris Ragland as Deputy Chief to handle any decisions or emergencies that may arise during his refereeing commitments. This arrangement has the apparent support of Mayor Ed Gainey, who, according to statements detailed by WTAE, sees this as an opportunity for the city's youth and a step towards modernizing the bureau.
As the debate over the Chief’s decision to balance two jobs continues, sources have indicated to WPXI that Scirotto is cleared to referee as many as 50 games this season. With travel days accounted for, the Chief could be away for up to 100 to 150 days a year. Time will reveal how this balance of responsibilities will play out for the city of Pittsburgh and its Police Bureau.
