Assistant Chief James Harpole drops out as candidate for Milwaukee interim police chief, announces retirement

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Assistant Chief of Police James Harpole has dropped out of the running for the Milwaukee Police Department’s acting interim chief, according to the Fire and Police Commission. 

The FPC says they received a letter from Harpole on Tuesday, with his intention to withdraw himself from candidacy for the position. See the letter sent by Harpole to the FPC below or by clicking here. 

In the letter, Harpole says in part,

"It became apparent to me during my interview that the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission desires to move in a different direction from the administration of Chief Flynn, therefore, has diminished interest in my candidacy as a sitting assistant chief appointed by him. It is for this reason, amongst others, that I have decided to withdraw my candidacy from the selection process for the position of acting/interim police chief and will be exploring other professional opportunities."

See the FPC's response to Assistant Chief Harpole below or by clicking here.

The remaining candidates are Inspector of Police Michael J. Brunson and Police Captain Alfonso Morales. Assistant Chief Harpole further informed the FPC that he will be retiring from the MPD, with his last working day being February 16, 2018.

A forum for the public to ask the remaining candidates questions is being planned for Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Mexican Fiesta Headquarters by the Milwaukee’s Board of Fire and Police Commission.

The FPC intends to name the Acting/Interim Chief during the regularly scheduled meeting on February 15.

See the full release from the FPC below or by clicking here. 

This is a developing story. Stay with CBS 58 on air and online for the latest information.