Denver police chief Paul Pazen retires amid pressure after 28 years

Denver police chief Paul Pazen is retiring on Oct. 15 after practically 30 years with the drive, Mayor Michael Hancock’s workplace introduced Wednesday.

Why it issues: His departure comes as violent crime in Denver is on tempo to hit an all-time excessive this 12 months and a grand jury is investigating a number of of his officers in reference to a downtown taking pictures that injured six bystanders in July.

• The information additionally follows heightened scrutiny over Pazen’s management, significantly following a federal jury’s verdict earlier this 12 months requiring the town to pay $14 million for its response to the 2020 George Floyd protests.

What they’re saying: “It is vital to me that the subsequent police chief take the reins right now so the division and our officers are effectively positioned for the way forward for policing in our group,” Pazen mentioned in an announcement.

• Hancock’s spokesperson Mike Strott informed Axios Denver the choice to step down was Pazen’s, not the mayor’s.

Catch up fast: Hancock appointed Pazen in June 2018, making him the second Latino chief of police in Denver historical past.

• The previous three years of Pazen’s tenure have together with main the division by way of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial justice protests, in addition to navigating workers shortages throughout the company.
• As chief, Pazen emphasised the significance of data-driven methods and launched a brand new initiative to focus on crime in “sizzling spot” areas the place charges of violence are highest.
• Pazen additionally advocated for the enlargement of police various initiatives, in addition to the creation of the STAR program, which sends psychological well being specialists as a substitute of uniformed officers to some low-level 911 calls.

The opposite aspect: Robert Davis, challenge coordinator for a job drive that made coverage change suggestions for native police and a vocal critic of the chief, mentioned he was shocked to be taught Pazen was retiring.

• “He took us, as a metropolis, backwards in his philosophical strategy to policing,” Davis informed Axios Denver, including that beneath his tenure, police didn’t face sufficient accountability, and the chief didn’t take heed to the group’s wants.

Between the strains: Pazen’s identify has been talked about as a possible mayoral candidate, however his critics counsel his candidacy can be an uphill battle.

• “It has been excessive time for Chief Pazen to go. Document payouts for police brutality, a DPD mass taking pictures & misplaced group belief. … If Pazen even thinks about working for mayor we’re prepared,” Lisa Calderón, former Denver mayoral candidate and govt director of Emerge Colorado, tweeted after Wednesday’s announcement.

What’s subsequent: Hancock has chosen Ron Thomas as his nominee to be the subsequent police chief — which would require Denver Metropolis Council approval.

• Council president Jamie Torres informed Axios Denver she’s wanting ahead to assembly with Thomas over the subsequent few weeks and hopes, whoever steps into the position, will make communication and accountability high priorities.
• “I believe everybody throughout the board desires a division that everybody is absolutely pleased with,” she mentioned.
• Thomas will assume the position of performing chief beginning Sept. 6, in line with the mayor’s workplace.