LANCASTER - For the second time since joining the Lancaster Police Department, Russell Preston is resigning as police chief.
Preston, who has been chief since July 12, 1997, surprised Mayor Billy Moss and council members with his announcement during a closed door session Monday night.
"It kind of shocked me a little bit," said Moss.
"It's kind of a shock I hate to see him resign as chief," said council member Jesse Wagoner, who served as a patrolman when Preston was chief from 1994 to 1996. "I never had a problem with him during those 2 years," said Wagoner.
Preston says he wants to resign effect midnight Wednesday but remain with the force as an officer. He announced his resignation to the council following a 30-minute closed door meeting that was listed on the agenda as "Executive session to discuss personnel."
