Philip Banks III : NYC’s top uniformed cop resigns

Philip Banks III, New York City’s highest ranking uniformed police officer within the New York Police Department abruptly announced his resignation earlier this week, days before beginning a new high-ranking promotion.

Banks was supposed to have been named 1st deputy commissioner. That person is second in command at the nation’s largest police department. But it’s a civilian post and Banks would have become less involved in the department’s daily operations.

Commissioner William Bratton confirmed Banks’ resignation on Friday.

The department had already announced his appointment earlier this week. Banks was to have taken office during a promotions ceremony Monday.

Banks took over as chief of department in March 2013 under former Commissioner Raymond Kelly.

He’s been with the department since 1986. He was previously the head of community affairs.

Commissioner Bratton released the following statement Friday afternoon:

“After a highly successful tenure, Chief Philip Banks III., the highest ranking uniformed member of the service, has decided to retire from the New York City Police Department. Chief Banks’ commitment to the NYPD and the people of this city has been demonstrated throughout his impressive 28 years of police service. He has served this Department in all ranks as an exceptional leader and effectively worked with the community to support our efforts to make New York City one of the safest largest cities in the world. As a result of his outstanding leadership and commitment, Chief Banks was selected to become the First Deputy Commissioner, the second highest position within the NYPD at the upcoming promotions on Monday, November 3, 2014. His decision to retire is truly a loss to the Department and my leadership team.”

Agencies/Canadajournal