Steve Bukala, a nearly 25-year veteran of the Lowell Police Department, resigned as Police Chief late Thursday night.
No official reason has been provided for his resignation although it appears to be linked to a post made to the Lowell Police Department Facebook page on Tuesday. That post was made to inform the public that four individuals would be openly carrying firearms in the city, as is allowed by state law. Some people expressed concern about the post content and tone, and it was deleted by Wednesday.
On Thursday, the Lowell Police Department and City of Lowell Facebook pages were updated to say that previous post was “ill-considered” and a “mistake.” However, no announcement was made about Bukala’s departure.
When contacted for comment, City Manager Mike Burns provided the following statement:
On Thursday, Steve Bukula resigned as Chief of Police after more than 24 years of service to our community. We wish him well in his next chapter and appreciate all he has done for Lowell. Sgt. Chris Hurst will serve as Interim Chief while we undertake a search.
Bukala has not made any public comment on the matter.
Existence, but maybe assistance could work.
The city should be sued out of assistance. At the very least Mr Burns need to be fired immediately. “Chief Bukala was told he could resign by 5 p.m. Thursday or be terminated at 5:01 p.m”
Outrageous that supporting the Bill of Rights is considered “hostile”?! Glad I don’t live up there anymore! I moved to a red state where the 2nd ammendment is sacred.
As I understand it, he was forced to resign for supporting the Constitution of the United States???!!! Doesn’t say much for Lowell.
I heard the Civil Liberties Union is looking ino a constitutional lawsuit.
He put in his time so let him retire peacefully while he can.