WINNIPEG — Winnipeg’s police chief is retiring.
Devon Clunis made the announcement Thursday afternoon at a media conference.
“When I was sworn in as chief of police in November 2011 I swore to make a difference in the city,” he said. “And that could be done only by addressing the social root of crime.”
Clunis said he took the job with specific goals in mind and over the past years he believed he accomplished them, noting that there has been a crime reduction in the city.
“It’s simply time for me,” Clunis said, who was joined by his wife at the media conference.
WATCH: Police Chief Devon Clunis announced his retirement Thursday afternoon
“It is because what retirement means to the lovely young lady sitting beside me. You would only have to look at her to know why I want to spend more time with her.”
Clunis added that the possible slashes and layoffs heading to the police budget had nothing to do with his decision to retire.
Clunis was sworn in Nov. of 2012 after spending 25 years with Winnipeg Police.
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Winnipeg Police Service members were informed of his decision this morning.
Mayor Brian Bowman, who as at the announcement, said he was “surprised” by the decision, but said he has complete respect for it.
“You have been a critical part of our community,” Bowman said.
The Winnipeg Police Board said it will immediately begin the process of finding a new chief.
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