Reaction to Rodney Monroe’s retirement

“I am so proud of what we have accomplished as a department and all the strides we have made. We have experienced historic crime reductions, fostered trust, and built upon established community partnerships.”

Rodney Monroe,

in a letter to CMPD employees

“He was truly able to relate. He didn’t have to take a class to relate. He didn’t have to do research. He didn’t have to call a consultant in to relate because he came from that same community. He spoke their language.”

Gary McFadden,

a retired homicide detective, on Monroe being the first black chief

“I think he’s been positive for the community, but I think it’s mixed from our membership from what he’s done as far as decisions based on policy. There’s a lot that a majority of our organization are not happy with some of the decisions he’s made.”

Todd Walther,

president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 9

“People that I have spoken to in all different communities feel like the police (under Monroe) are more visible, that they are trying to build relationships with people. They’re just doing things to have more of a relationship with the public. It’s not a panacea. It hasn’t solved all problems, but it’s helped.”

Julie Eiselt,

City Council candidate and one of the founding members of Neighbors for a Safer Charlotte

“Rodney is extraordinary, an extraordinary man and an equally extraordinary chief. His time here has been really remarkable. I hate to see him go, but he’s certainly earned the chance to retire or do whatever he wants to do.”

City Manager Ron Carlee

“Chief Monroe has been an exceptional leader for the men and women of CMPD, and his unwavering commitment to strengthening police-community relations has proven to have a powerful and I believe lasting impact on our city.”

Mayor Dan Clodfelter

This story was originally published May 18, 2015 at 8:10 PM with the headline "Reaction to Rodney Monroe’s retirement."