Chicago Interim Police Superintendent To Retire As Johnson Takes Over

CHICAGO — Eric Carter, the interim Chicago Police superintendent who stepped in to replace former boss David Brown, announced on Thursday that he will retire next month as newly elected Mayor Brandon Johnson takes office.

Carter has worked within the department for more than 30 years and called doing so has been the greatest honor of his life. Carter previously served as CPD’s second-in-command between July 2020 and March, when he was propelled into the top spot in the department due to Brown’s departure last month. Brown announced his resignation after Mayor Lori Lightfoot lost her bid for re-election to a second term.

In a statement announcing his retirement on Thursday, Carter said he will work with Johnson to ensure CPD “continues to deliver transformational service to Chicago’s residents” through the summer and as a search for a new permanent police superintendent takes place.

Carter’s retirement will take effect on May 15, the day that Johnson is set to be sworn in as Chicago’s mayor. Johnson defeated Paul Vallas in this month’s run-off election to replace Lori Lightfoot who was not re-elected after serving just one term in office. Both Johnson and Vallas called for reform within the department, citing the city's continued issue with violent crime.

In a speech to the Illinois General Assembly on Wednesday, Johnson called for more supportfor Chicago police officers who he said are being asked to be too much. He also called for more mental health support for officers, who he said Wednesday, have the hardest job in America.

Carter moved up through the department’s command staff in 30 years with the department before taking over the second spot almost three years ago. Carter previously served as the Chief of the Bureau of Counterterrorism and Special Operations, deputy chief for the Bureau of Organized Crime and commander of both the 4th and 6th District.

He also worked for years as an investigator within the department, delving into drug cases and other criminal investigations as also working on task force units serving both the FBI and DEA.

“I’m blessed to have worked alongside some of the most creative and compassionate individuals to wear the Chicago police star,” Carter said in a statement released on Thursday.

“I will look forward to my next adventure but will always hold the men and women — sworn and civilian — of this department in the highest esteem.”