Wauwatosa Police Chief Barry Weber to retire June 1

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A nearly 50-year career in law enforcement will end in a few months for Wauwatosa Police Chief Barry Weber.

He announced his retirement Monday, effective June 1st.

Weber has led Wauwatosa police for 31 years, but the events during the last year of his career may define his legacy forever for Black and brown people.

"Frankly I think it's good for Wauwatosa and the Wauwatosa Police Department that Chief Weber will no longer be its chief, however I think he should be fired," said Attorney Kim Motley.

She represents the families of three victims shot and killed by former officer Joseph Mensah. The police department released a recommendation letter Weber wrote for Mensah's new job in Waukesha County. It gave Mensah high marks.

"He's done a lot of damage to the city of Wauwatosa," said Motley.

She said the police treatment of protesters this summer and what she labeled "blatantly illegal curfew tickets" further tarnish Weber's tenure.

"There's been an unprecedented amount of legal and financial liabilities that Chief Weber. under his failed leadership. has brought on onto the city of Wauwatosa," said Motley.

Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride issued a statement thanking the chief for his service and wishing him a happy retirement in June.

"You still have three families that have not received justice," said John Larry.

Larry is the chair of a committee set up last summer to address policing and racism. He said Weber's exit does not solve Wauwatosa's problems.

"The need for police accountability, especially in interactions and behaviors with black and brown people," said Larry.

The city's Police and Fire Commission meets later this week to begin the process of selecting a new chief.

CBS 58 reached out to the Wauwatosa Peace Officers Association and five council members to react to Weber's retirement decision as well.

Our calls were not returned.