Suffolk: Spota 'saddened' by Chief Burke's departure under probe

Suffolk District Attorney Thomas Spota, a long time mentor of Suffolk Police chief of department James Burke, gave a belated reaction to his protege’s sudden decision to retire in light of a renewed federal probe into conduct related the theft of the chief’s duffel bag and his treatment of the suspect.

“I’m saddened by it,” said Spota. “He’s a great friend and a terrific chief of the department and everyone I’ve spoken to in the department is saddened by his resignation.”