Police Chief James Craig is leaving Portland

Outgoing Portland Police Chief James Craig at a press conference this morning announcing that he has accepted the position of Police Chief for Cincinnati. Note the hat!

Craig said he was proud of the relationship between the police force and civilians. He also suggested that his replacement come from within the force. Assistant Chief Michael Sauschuck  (one of the people Craig said would be up for the task)) will serve as Acting Chief. 

Craig also praised the work of neighborhood prosecutor Trish McAllister, crediting her with "changing the fabric of our most challenging neighborhoods." Look for a longer piece about McAllister and her position in an upcoming issue of the Phoenix. 

The chief will be sworn in in Cincinnati at the beginning of August. He said he does not think people will question his short tenure in Portland -- "My commitment was real." He choked up at the end of his announcement.