Seattle's police chief abruptly announced her retirement Monday night after the city council voted to cut $4 million from the department's budget.
Carmen Best said, "I am confident the department will make it through these difficult times."
Her retirement will be effective on September 2.
As part of the reduced budget, 32 officers will be cut from patrols along with training expenses. The cuts also include reducing specialized units.
Seattle's mayor had originally proposed to cut about $20 million from the police department's budget.
Officials say the city is dealing with a shortfall from lower tax revenue and increased demand for services during the pandemic.
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