Weslaco Police Chief Joel Rivera announced his resignation from the department. During a Weslaco City commissioners announced the decision during a Tuesday meeting.

Rivera told Channel 5 News he has accepted a non-law enforcement position in the Rio Grande Valley. His last day as police chief will be December 22. 

"I can say that I'm extremely proud of the Weslaco Police Department, the many things we've accomplished during my time here. It is bittersweet because I'm leaving a lot of good people behind, but I know the city of Weslaco is in good hands," Rivera said.

Rivera was appointed police chief in 2018. He began his law enforcement career in 1998 and has served in various capacities at the Hidalgo County Constable Precinct 1, Hidalgo County Constable Precinct 4 and as a division chief at the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office.

Weslaco Assistant Police Chief Armando Espinoza will serve as interim chief of police.