Col. Mike Edmonson, superintendent of the Louisiana State Police, announced Wednesday that he would retire after 37 years of service to the state.

Edmonson’s retirement will be effective Friday, March 24. Prior to his retirement, Gov. John Bel Edwards will name an interim deputy secretary of public safety services and superintendent of state police. Edwards will then begin the search for a permanent leader for the LSP.

“Today, after careful consideration and many discussions regarding the future of the state police, Col. Edmonson notified me of his retirement,” Edwards said. “Together, we believe this is the best approach for the department. Throughout many natural and manmade disasters, Col. Edmonson has been a steady hand and strong leader for the people of Louisiana.

“I, and many of the people of Louisiana, have sought Col. Edmonson’s counsel on numerous occasions, and he has provided leadership and support when we’ve needed it most. I want to thank him for his more than three decades of service to the state of Louisiana and wish him well as he begins his retirement.”

Edmonson said the decision to retire was entirely his own.

“I have spent the better part of the last few days meeting with Gov. Edwards and his staff,” he said. “I have also been talking with my family and friends from around the state, many of them legislators, sheriffs, chiefs of police and business owners. The discussion has always led to the same question—what is best for my family, the Louisiana State Police and all the employees who are part of Public Safety Services?

“After meeting again with the governor today, I have decided that it is in the best interests of the state that I retire from my position as deputy secretary of public safety and superintendent of state police. The governor has never asked that I step down. As our discussions continued today, I have come to believe that my moving aside will permit the governor and the state to move forward.

“I thank Gov. Edwards for permitting me to be a part of his team. He and I have endured more than our share of crises during his first 14 months. I have offered my advice, my counsel, my support and have always given him my utmost loyalty. In return, he has entrusted me to lead this great organization. For that I am eternally grateful.”