Politics & Government

Tucson Mayor Rejects Police Chief's Offer To Resign

Tucson Police Chief Christopher Magnus said on Wednesday he would resign in light of a man's death while in police custody.

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Chris Magnus speaks to reporters in front of Richmond High School November 2, 2009 in Richmond, California. On Wednesday, Magnus offered his resignation to the Tucson Mayor & Council after a man died while in police custody.
Chris Magnus speaks to reporters in front of Richmond High School November 2, 2009 in Richmond, California. On Wednesday, Magnus offered his resignation to the Tucson Mayor & Council after a man died while in police custody. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

TUCSON, AZ — Tucson Mayor Regina Romero announced Thursday she is rejecting police chief Christopher Magnus' offer to resign.

Magnus first announced he'd be willing to resign in a press conference Wednesday discussing the in-custody death of Carlos Ingram-Lopez, who died while handcuffed and in police custody.

Romero issued a statement explaining the decision.

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The statement, in part, reads, "Chief Magnus has brought forward thinking changes to TPD policies, practices and trainings, and he has built strong relationships with our community since he joined the Department in 2016."

Read more: Tucson Police Chief Offers To Resign After In-Custody Death

Find out what's happening in Tucsonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Romero's statement explains it is the job of the city manager to accept resignations, but she still does not believe the chief should resign.

"The best way we can honor Carlos Adrian's memory is by coming together and taking immediate action to build a better, more just community," Romero wrote.

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