AURORA, Colo. — After leading the Aurora Police Department for more than a year, former Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo announced his intentions to leave the department and return to Texas to be with his family.
Aurora PD said Acevedo's last day would be Jan. 22.
"This was a difficult decision to make," Acevedo said. "I am grateful for the unwavering dedication of the exceptional men and women of the Aurora Police Department. Serving as Chief of Police alongside the current leadership team has been an honor. Together, we have achieved significant progress in this remarkable, diverse and welcoming community. I carry with me immense pride in the positive impact we have had. Aurora will forever remain a part of me."
According to APD, during Acevedo’s tenure, the agency made significant progress on provisions of the Consent Decree and he was instrumental in streamlining their recruitment and hiring processes, resulting in dramatic increases in academy classes.
"Since day one, Chief Acevedo has carried out this role with the vision, purpose and conviction of a permanent chief," Aurora City Manager Jason Batchelor said. "He brought passion and unparalleled experience and knowledge to his work every day. I am confident in the direction he has set for the agency and its leadership."
Interim Deputy Chief Heather Morris will be appointed as APD’s Interim Chief of Police on Acevedo's last day.
City officials will figure out the next steps as far as finding a permanent police chief in the coming weeks.