PITTSBURGH —(WPXI)- Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto will be retiring next week. In a letter that was sent to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police department, Scirotto announced his last day as chief will be Nov. 1, after nearly 25 years with the organization. “This decision is rooted in pride, duty, and a deep commitment to our organization and the community we serve. This choice is made by me alone, in the best interest of my officers and department,” Scirotto said. “Throughout my career, I have never shied away from a challenge. I have fought tirelessly for what is right, advocating for our officers and the community,” he continued. Scirotto came under fire last week after it was reported he was returning to refereeing college basketball, a gig he initially gave up when he took the job as Pittsburgh’s police chief. “While I have enjoyed this work and look forward to my upcoming officiating commitments, I recognize that this visibility has become a distraction for the department,” Scirotto continued, citing “substantial media coverage” surrounding his referee duties. On Tuesday, City Council voted unanimously to hold a public hearing questioning Scirotto. That same day, a news conference with the chief was abruptly canceled.