Ernest Cato III, one of Chicago Police Department's highest-ranking officials, abruptly retires

CHICAGO (WLS) -- In a surprisingly fast exit, Chief Ernest "Ernie" Cato III submitted his retirement from the Chicago Police Department Friday, the ABC7 I-Team has learned.

Cato, who served as chief of the counterterrorism unit, spent more than three decades with CPD and was one of the highest-ranking officials in the department.

Cato was among the finalists for the superintendent position that ultimately went to current Supt. David Brown in 2020.

While Cato submitted his paperwork for immediate separation on Friday, due to technicalities, his retirement will be effective in mid-October.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.