LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- After just 19 months on the job, Judith Estorge, the first female Chief of the Lafayette Police Department, has stepped down from that post, according to multiple sources within the department.

The department's command staff was notified in a meeting this morning that Estorge stepped down Wednesday and will remain in the department with the rank of captain, sources confirmed.

Estorge was appointed chief in 2022. She had worked her way up the ranks of the Lafayette Police Department since 1993, serving as a patrol officer, a traffic motor officer, a detective in the Criminal Investigative Division, a Precinct 3 sergeant and watch commander.

Capt. Paul Trouard has been named interim chief, sources said. Trouard was a finalist for the position when Thomas Glover was named chief in 2020. According to his LinkedIn profile, Trouard has been with LPD for over 27 years.

In a news release issued Thursday afternoon, Lafayette Consolidated Government said Estorge will be stepping down from her position as Chief of Police for personal reasons effective May 28.

While she will no longer serve as Chief, Judith Estorge will continue to be a vital part of the Lafayette Police Department, Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet said.

"Chief Estorge's leadership has made a lasting impact, providing stability in the department. We are grateful for her dedication as she will continue to serve within LPD," Boulet said.

According to the release, the interim chief of police will be named on May 28. 

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