TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — The man at the center of controversy stirred up by the Tallahassee police chief candidate search is speaking out.
TPD Major Lawrence Revell says he's thankful for all the support he's gotten and excited for Antonio Gilliam to get started as chief.
Revell made the top three for the position.
Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor started a push to keep him from getting the job after Revell shot and killed a black teenager that he and other officers were trying to arrest in 1996.
Revell says everything happens for a reason and says he has no regrets over the campaign.
"I've quoted Genesis 50:20 a lot which says 'You meant it for harm but God used it for good.' Truly, you know what I think the commissioner meant for harm turned out to be good," Revell explained. "The outpouring of support, the involvement from the community that caused was all positive."
Revell says Gilliam will make him second-in-command as deputy chief. However, Revell's position may not be set in stone yet.
Gilliam says when changes are made, he will be the first to announce them.
"In anticipation of changes to come department reorganization is inevitable, including, but not limited to promotional opportunities," said Gilliam in a statement Monday evening. "I look forward to the chance to meet members of the Tallahassee Police Department, as well as members of the Tallahassee community to enhance my perspective. As transparency is paramount within the Tallahassee Police Department, any noteworthy transitions or changes made within the Agency will be announced through official means, and by the Chief of Police or his designee."
Gilliam is set to start next month.
