Breckinridge resigns as Tulare police chief

Richard “Jerry” Breckinridge has resigned as police chief in Tulare, more than four months after the city manager mysteriously said he was “unavailable to conduct city business” until further notice.

A joint statement Tuesday by Breckinridge and the city said the chief had resigned “after a long and dedicated career” of 26 years at the department.

No reason was given for the resignation, and none will be offered, the statement said.

“In recent months, I have focused on personal matters requiring my immediate and undivided attention,” Breckinridge said in the statement.

“I am thankful to the city for supporting my wish and right to privacy throughout this time. It is with mixed feelings that I bring this chapter in life to a close and announce my resignation from the Tulare Police Department, effective Nov. 13, 2015. I thank city administration, city residents, and members of the police department for allowing me to serve the community of Tulare for over 26 years.”

Why Breckinridge stopped coming to work was never made clear.

At the time, City Manager Don Dorman said he couldn’t discuss the reasons and would not state whether Breckinridge had been placed on administrative leave.

Breckinridge, 48, had been in trouble before.

Last year, he was arrested after authorities received a complaint of domestic violence, but no charges were filed and he was not placed on administrative leave.

The joint statement said the city “thanks Chief Breckinridge for all that he has done for the city of Tulare and its police department throughout his career. The city also wishes Jerry much success in his future endeavors and career.”

This story was originally published October 6, 2015 at 7:09 PM with the headline "Breckinridge resigns as Tulare police chief."