Chicago Police Superintendent Phil Cline is stepping down.

The announcement comes during the on-going scandal over two very public incidents of alleged police misconduct.

Chicago Public Radio’s Ben Calhoun reports.

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When he announced his retirement this morning, Cline didn’t take questions.

He read a 4-minute statement, and made only passing reference to the scandal.

CLINE: Leaving there in these times of challenge makes my decision even more difficult.

Cline’s been under fire for how the department’s handled two incidents of alleged violent misconduct by officers.

That includes the videotaped beating of a female bartender by one off-duty cop.

 DALEY: No, I did not ask for his resignation.

Chicago Mayor Richard Daley praises the superintendent and insists he didn’t ask him to resign.

Though Daley says he’s upset by the scandal—and supports Cline’s decision to leave.

DALEY: Well I think it’s time for a change and that’s what it was.

Cline will stay on the job until the police board settles on a replacement.

I’m Ben Calhoun, Chicago Public Radio