he City of Newton announced that, effective immediately, Police Chief Eric Murphy had retired from his position of police chief after 33 years with the department, five as police chief.
“We sincerely thank Chief Murphy for his honorable service and dedication to the law enforcement profession,” City Manager Bob Myers stated in a press release. “His integrity and commitment to our community are second to none, and we wish him all the best in the future.”
An attempt to contact Murphy was made Tuesday afternoon, but he was no longer at the police office though the front desk said a message would be forwarded to him.
Newton public information officer Erin McDaniel, would not comment specifically on Murphy’s departure as it was a personnel matter.
“The circumstances necessitated it be immediate,” she said of the resignation.
Deputy Chief Craig Dunlavy, who has served with the department 26 years will act as interim chief.
(Read more: Newton Now)