President Obama Praises Retiring Ramsey

PHILADELPHIA- WTXF - The tributes to retiring Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey have come throughout the day- and now the President of the United States has issued a statement praising Ramsey upon his retirement.

"I want to offer my heartfelt gratitude to Commissioner Charles "Chuck" Ramsey for his nearly five decades of leadership and service with some of this nation's largest law enforcement agencies," President Obama said in a statement issued by the White House Wednesday afternoon.

"From Chicago to DC to Philadelphia, Commissioner Ramsey has always supported our women and men in uniform and the communities they bravely serve and protect each and every day."

In addition to his work here in Philadelphia, Commissioner Ramsey was named by the president as co-chair of the Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

"For several months earlier this year, he played a vital role in bringing together leaders from across the country to create a clear and concise report including key recommendations for building stronger trust between communities and the law enforcement agencies that protect them," Obama continued. "I am extraordinarily grateful for Chuck's service and wish him an enjoyable and restful retirement."

Commissioner Ramsey, 65, the longest-serving commissioner in the history of the Philadelphia Police Department, announced Wednesday morning that he will step down next January.