ADA, Okla. (KTEN) — Ada police Chief Carl Allen has announced his retirement after 38 years of service to the city.

"This is it. This is my third retirement within the City of Ada," Allen said Monday.

Chief Carl Allen's career spans nearly four decades at the city of Ada.

He followed in his father's footsteps when he joined the Ada Police Department in 1985 at age 21.

His first retirement came in 2011, leaving law enforcement to join the Ada Public Works Department, eventually becoming its director.

Eight years later, the chief of police position opened up, so Allen decided to dust off his badge for an administrative role as the face of APD.

"It was pretty smooth for a couple months and then we had some officer-involved shootings," Allen explained. "...Different protocols that came with COVID. On top of that, we had the McGirt ruling which changed the jurisdictional issues. Things were pretty complicated at that point. A lot of sleepless nights."

Yet, Ada officers recognize the work their outgoing-chief accomplished as the department's 22nd chief of police.

"We're going to lose an asset that I don't think will be easily replaced," Detective Shane Jones said. "He's worked really hard to outfit the department and do a good job for everyone since he's come back."

"Him leaving is like seeing a friend or brother leave and it's kind of hard and bittersweet," Captain Michael O'Connor added. "He deserves to get retirement and enjoy some family time."

The city will host a retirement reception for Allen at the Arts and Heritage Center on December 28.