Outgoing Albany police chief honored

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Albany Police Department and city leaders recognized outgoing police chief Eric Hawkins on Friday.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan presented the chief with a proclamation that detailed some of the programs he put in place during his six years as chief. He was also given an award of appreciation.

Hawkins is taking a job as a police commissioner in Michigan where he started his career in law enforcement.

"So this is tough," he said. "It's tough to leave. I've been asked a lot -- What is it like? You're going back home -- and I tell them, this is home. I'm leaving home to go back to home. And, so, I thank you for allowing me. I thank you for adopting me into this place, so this has become home."

Hawkins's last day is Dec. 1. Former chief Brendan Cox has been named interim chief.