After being placed on leave, Haverhill Police Chief Robert Pistone has resigned amid intense scrutiny of the department after a man was killed in police custody and criticism of his leadership following the recent death of an officer , the city said.

In a statement released Thursday evening, Haverhill Mayor Melinda Barrett said Pistone announced he was retiring from his position effective immediately. She accepted his resignation, the statement said.

Deputy Stephen Doherty was made acting chief and said Thursday evening he will work with city leadership and union representatives immediately to rebuild trust and stability.

Pistone did not respond to requests for comment from the Globe.

“I recognize that the men and women of our police force have faced incredibly difficult circumstan

See Full Page