Aspen Police Chief Loren Ryerson, embroiled in accusations that he sexually harassed a female police officer, resigned Friday, the Aspen Daily News reported on its website.
“I feel it is in the best interest of the Aspen Police Department for me to resign,” Ryerson said at a Friday afternoon news conference. “The men and women of the Aspen Police Department deserve your support and respect.”
Ryerson, who is married, also apologized to the officer who made the accusations against him, according to the Daily News.
Ryerson joined the Aspen Police Department in 1984 and was promoted to chief in 2001. He was placed on leave in October when the allegations surfaced.
His resignation came on the same day Aspen officials were set to announce the results of the internal investigation into the matter, according to the Daily News.
“The investigation determined there was indeed some misconduct, but it didn’t rise to the level of requiring severe disciplinary action,” Aspen City Manager Steve Barwick told the Daily News.
Barwick said Ryerson made the decision to resign on his own and was not forced.
John Ingold: 303-954-1068 or jingold@denverpost.com
