Louisville Metro Police Department's deputy chief retiring after 24 years with department

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A member of the Louisville Metro Police Department's command staff is retiring after 24 years of service to the city.

Deputy Chief Steve Healey decided to retire in March, and stopped by WDRB on his last day Wednesday. He said it is difficult to walk away from the department right now.

"When you love the city as much as I do, you love this department, you see the direction that we're going in and it's really hard," Healey said. "This has been a part of my life for 24 years."

Healey said for police to be effective in a community, they have to be a part of the community.

"You have to make those connections," said Healey, who had a retirement party on Wednesday. "It was very humbling seeing so many members of the community there."

Healey said he has full confidence in LMPD Interim Chief Paul Humphrey.

"He has been spearheading several reform projects," Healey said. "He's renown across the country for aspects of training. I think his vision is spot-on for what this department needs."

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