Schaumburg police chief retires after troubles

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. (AP) — The police chief in the Chicago suburb of Schaumburg has announced his retirement just over two months after three officers were arrested on drug charges.

The Daily Herald reports (http://bit.ly/YRNvps) that Schaumburg Police Chief Brian Howerton announced his retirement on Tuesday, effective April 5. Howerton's department is under review by a consulting firm after the three officers were charged with operating a drug ring using marijuana and cocaine seized from dealers.

Cook County prosecutors recently cleared Howerton of criminal wrongdoing in connection with an ex-girlfriend's harassment and stalking complaints. He says in his resignation letter that overcoming damage from the accusations "may not be in the best interest of all."

Schaumburg Village Manager Ken Fritz says Howerton told him that now is a good time to bring in new leadership.

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Information from: Daily Herald, http://www.dailyherald.com