CHICAGO (WLS) — Veteran Superintendent Larry Snelling has revealed his plan to retire from the Chicago Police Department, closing a chapter on a career spanning over three decades.
The announcement came on Wednesday, with Snelling specifying that his departure from the force would be effective as of July 15.
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Snelling delivered the news via a heartfelt letter, shared through the Chicago Police Department’s social media channels on Wednesday afternoon.
Having assumed the role of superintendent in 2023, Snelling played a significant part in reducing Chicago’s crime rate, with noteworthy declines reported annually under his leadership.
In his farewell message, Snelling expressed deep gratitude, stating, “I am closing out this chapter of my life with a heart full of gratitude for every Chicagoan and every community partner who embraced me during my time at the Chicago Police Department. Thank you does not fully express my appreciation for you, the people of Chicago.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also posted a statement about Snelling’s departure Wednesday afternoon.
Accolades began pouring in within minutes of Supt. Snelling announcing his retirement, but the decision has also raised questions about the department’s leadership as the city heads into the summer months.
Just six weeks ago, Snelling addressed persistent rumors that he was preparing to retire.
“In this profession, we ask a lot of people, and we give a lot, but I can tell you right now, rumors are rumors,” Snelling said at the time.
While the announcement was not entirely unexpected, its timing comes as the traditionally more violent summer period is getting underway.
“As things get increasingly hot. As these street takeovers and teen trends continue in the City of Chicago who is going to be at the helm of the police department,” said Ald. Ray Lopez of the 15th Ward.
The announcement has also fueled speculation that a tense relationship with Mayor Brandon Johnson may have played a role in Snelling’s decision.
“Everything at news affairs ran through the fifth floor of City Hall before it came out at 35th and Michigan,” said John Catanzara, president of the Fraternal Order of Police.
Several members of the City Council praised Snelling’s career and leadership following the announcement.
“He is the epitome of from the mud up. He attended Englewood High School. Went into the force at the age of 22,” said Ald. Stephanie Coleman of the 16th Ward.
“We’ve had some very good superintendents over the last 30-40 years. Nobody better than Larry Snelling,” said Ald. Matt O’Shea of the 19th Ward.
Snelling became superintendent less than three years ago. Before that, he served as commander of the 7th District in Englewood, the same district where he began his career as a police officer. He led the department during a period when violent crime numbers were at record lows and oversaw public safety efforts during the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
“He was vital to seamlessly merging CPD’s local footprint with the Secret Service’s security plan,” said Peter Vogl, assistant special agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Chicago Field Office.
Mayor Johnson thanked Snelling for his service and said Fred Waller will once again take over as interim superintendent. Some, however, question how long Waller will remain in the role, with the mayoral election seven months away.
“No one is going to keep this job thinking that there is no career path. We will be stuck with a placeholder,” Lopez said.
Snelling’s last day on the job is set for July 15. After that, the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability will begin the search process for his replacement.
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