Mayor Harrell: Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz 'stepping aside'

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell announced Wednesday that Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz is “stepping aside” to work on special assignments for the mayor with the Seattle Police Department.

Harrell appointed Sue Rahr as interim police chief to start Thursday.

In a media release, Harrell said that Rahr “is uniquely qualified to step into this position and will be an outstanding leader for our police department.”

Harrell said a nationwide search for the next permanent police chief will begin immediately.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/sources-seattle-police-chief-adrian-165742852.html

Seattle names interim police chief, shifts Adrian Diaz to new role

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell on Wednesday appointed former King County Sheriff Sue Rahr interim police chief to replace Adrian Diaz, whose administration faces allegations that the police force has discriminated against women and people of color.

Emotions ran high at a press conference, where Diaz and Rahr flanked the mayor, who praised Diaz.

"He's first and foremost a friend, and I believe he's extremely talented as well," Harrell said, adding that under Diaz's leadership, the city has made progress on the city's public safety challenges.

Harrell publicly thanked Diaz for his service at a press conference Thursday.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/sources-seattle-police-chief-adrian-165742852.html