PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Local officials are weighing in following the removal of former Pittsburgh Police Chief Nate Harper amid a growing federal investigation.

Among those reacting to the news on Wednesday night were Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl’s opponents for the mayoral seat.

Zappala said he felt badly for Harper as they’re working relationship in the past was smooth. He wished the former chief’s family the best.

“I’m not sure what all the evidence is. I’m sure he’ll be treated fairly, and like I said, I wish him and his family well,” said Zappala. “From a public safety perspective and the business of the people in this community, we’ve never had a problem working together and I think he’s done a good job.”

City Controller Michael Lamb and City Councilman Bill Peduto both pointed fingers at Mayor Ravenstahl for not giving the public more information as to what prompted the mayor to ask Harper to resign.

“While the Mayor finally took some action today, we know that there are still a lot of issues and an investigation surrounding this bureau that go far beyond Chief Harper,” said Lamb.

“From the very beginning, with public safety in the first few months, and then later with the URA, and then again with the PWSA, and now within the police bureau, it kills morale within the city, but more importantly it hurts the city,” Peduto said.

Zappala says he plans to meet with Mayor Ravenstahl Thursday to discuss what happens next.

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Pittsburgh Police Chief Nate Harper Steps Down (2/20/13)
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