Barthel to step down as Sioux Falls Police Chief

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) -  A visibly emotional Sioux Falls Police Chief Doug Barthel announced his retirement today, effective October 16^th.

An equally emotional Mayor Mike Huether says Barthel was most instrumental in the city’s pension reform effort.

Barthel says he’ll become Sanford’s director of community relations and public policy beginning in December.

After twelve years as Chief of the Sioux Falls Police Department, Doug Barthel today announced his retirement.  Mayor Mike Huether said its mixed news because while he’s losing a police chief he’ll be able to spend more time with a friend.         

Barthel will close the book on a thirty year police career October 16.