Collins will announce Diggs replacement next week

Toledo police chief Derrick Diggs

Toledo police Chief Derrick Diggs will retire Jan. 2, citing “irreconcilable differences in policing philosophy” with D. Michael Collins, the city's mayor-elect.

The chief told Mayor Mike Bell today that he would retire at the end of the mayor's term, according to a news release from Jen Sorgenfrei, city spokesman.

Chief Diggs will “pursue other professional law enforcement opportunities” and Mr. Collins will be able to appoint a new chief.

The chief will not be giving media interviews, police officials said.

Mr. Collins said today, in an e-mailed statement, that he has the "utmost respect for Chief Diggs as an individual."

He said he will announce his candidate for police chief, and other director positions, by Dec. 16.

"This individual shares some of my philosophies on how to best meet the safety needs of our community as defined during my mayoral campaign," Mr. Collins said.

Chief Diggs was appointed as chief in 2011, succeeding Mike Navarre, who retired after 13 years as the department's highest-ranking official.

Chief Diggs is the department's first black chief.

Since his appointment, much has changed, including adding a canine unit, a real-time crime surveillance center, and the Toledo Community Initiative to Reduce Violence.

The Toledo Police Patrolman's Association officials said they hoped Chief Diggs would remain in the position after Mr. Collins takes office. The union supported Mr. Collins in his bid for mayor, but has supported the current chief.

TPPA President Dan Wagner could not immediately be reached for comment.