The head of Louisiana State Police is retiring.
Col. Mike Edmonson and Gov. John Bel Edwards released a joint statement confirming reports that surfaced Wednesday that Edmonson is stepping down after leading State Police for the last 9 years.
“Today, after careful consideration and many discussions regarding the future of the state police, Col. Edmonson notified me of his retirement," Edwards said. "Together, we believe this is the best approach for the department. Throughout many natural and manmade disasters, Col. Edmonson has been a steady hand and strong leader for the people of Louisiana. I, and many of the people of Louisiana, have sought Col. Edmonson's counsel on numerous occassions, and he has provided leadership and support when we've needed it most."
Edmonson said, "I have spent the better part of the last few days meeting with Governor Edwards and his staff. I have also been talking with my family and friends from around the state, many of them legislators, sheriffs, chiefs of police and business owners. The discussion has always led to the same question—what is best for my family, the Louisiana State Police and all the employees who are part of Public Safety Services? After meeting again with the Governor today, I have decided that it is in the best interests of the state that I retire from my position as Deputy Secretary of Public Safety and Superintendent of State Police. The Governor has never asked that I step down."
The move comes amid rising controversy for the department, as WBRZ News 2 reports:
Concerns had been raised about thousands of dollars his agency spent on a trip to a law enforcement conference in California and about a nonprofit trooper organization's donations to political candidates despite bans on political contributions from troopers.
Edmonson's final day on the job will be March 24. Edwards will name an interim replacement before that date and then launch "an aggressive search for a permanent leader of State Police", according to the joint statement.
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