NEW YORK - Bill Bratton walked out of 1 Police Plaza one last time as police commissioner Friday afternoon after he submitted his formal resignation to Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Bratton walked alongside his wife to heavy applause and cheers from hundreds of officers.
Bill Bratton's last words riding off into the sunset #nyc #nypd. pic.twitter.com/q8Xafv7qSw
— Dean Meminger (@DeanMeminger) September 16, 2016
In his resignation, Bratton strongly praised de Blasio, saying, in part, "In leading six different police departments across the country in the past 35 years, I have never been resourced or more fully supported by any mayor."
I will never forget or fail to honor the achievements of @CommissBratton. Thank you for your friendship and service. pic.twitter.com/P8ai0fG5l0
— Bill de Blasio (@BilldeBlasio) September 16, 2016
De Blasio hired Bratton to keep crime low and improve police-community relations. Bratton's newly sworn-in replacement, James O'Neill, says that will continue with an emphasis on neighborhood policing.
"I'm going to make sure it is fully implemented and we do our best to get to know the people that we took that oath to protect and serve," O'Neill said.
Let's do this together #NYC. All communities have to feel they're understood by #NYPD & know they're treated fairly. pic.twitter.com/4PGN7F8Vli
— Commissioner O'Neill (@NYPDONeill) September 16, 2016
The 68-year-old has been police commissioner since 2014, and previously served in the same role under former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. He also previously served as chief of transit police.
Honored & privileged to have led the Finest police department in the world. Thanks to all the members for all you do pic.twitter.com/zHiS2gDmV4
— Bill Bratton (@CommissBratton) September 16, 2016
Bratton is taking a job with the advisory firm Teneo once he leaves the NYPD.