New Haven's controversial Police Chief Dean Esserman has resigned. According to a press release from city spokesman Lawrence Grotheer, New Haven Mayor Toni Harp accepted Esserman's resignation Tuesday.
Esserman's resignation is effective as of last Friday. Back in late July, Esserman was placed on disciplinary leave for allegedly berating a waitress at Archie Moore's restaurant. He later transitioned to paid sick leave.
While crime and violence steadily decreased in New Haven during Esserman's nearly five years as the city's top cop, his tenure was marked by erratic behavior that forced members of the police union to give him a vote of "no confidence" earlier this summer.
But Harp praised the community relations established by police during Esserman's tenure.
"Public safety in New Haven is improved after a return to grass roots community policing, productive partnerships with other law enforcement agencies, and positive interaction with community organizations," said Harp.
"It has been my privilege to serve the wonderful people of New Haven – I am so very grateful for having had this opportunity to do so," said Esserman in the statement.
Grotheer said Assistant Chief Anthony Campbell will continue to serve as Interim Chief of Police until a permanent successor to Esserman is named.
Tucker Ives contributed to this report.
