Warriors backtrack on Greg Suhr after outcry

Soon after the arrangement became public, former San Francisco police Chief Greg Suhr and the Golden State Warriors have parted ways on a security consultant contract that drew criticism because of Suhr’s controversial record as police chief.

In a statement released this afternoon, Warriors officials said that the team and Suhr:

“… have mutually agreed to discontinue his consultant arrangement with the organization, effective immediately.”

Suhr had been retained to advise on security matters related to the groundbreaking ceremony next Tuesday for the team’s planned new stadium in the Mission Bay area of San Francisco, according to the Warriors. But once Suhr’s employment by the team was reported, it swiftly drew widespread criticism.

Some fans reached out directly to players via social media, and a Twitter post by Andre Iguodala saying simply “On it…” was interpreted by many as a reaction to the news:

Suhr resigned suddenly after the fatal police shooting of Jessica Williams on May 19. Officers had tried to pull Williams over and she crashed while trying to flee. Sgt. Justin Erb shot her during a confrontation that police have revealed little about.

Already facing calls for his resignation after a series of scandals in the department, including several controversial shootings and revelations of racist text messages between officers, Mayor Ed Lee asked Suhr to resign and appointed Toney Chaplin as interim chief.

Earlier Thursday, Warriors officials said they were “happy” to have Suhr on board, calling him:

“… an expert on public safety, security issues, event planning and operations, VIP protection, risk assessment and other matters related to the safe and secure operation of a major public forum.”

Suhr commented on his abrupt departure from the Warriors in a statement released by the team this afternoon:

“The last thing I want to do is cause a distraction for the Warriors during this incredibly positive time for the team and organization … I think this is in the best interest of everyone.”