ELMIRA, N.Y. (WHCU) — Elmira’s former police chief is speaking out on his removal. 

In a statement to WENY-TV, Anthony Alvernaz says he was told Monday his tenure was ending and was presented an option to either resign or be fired. Alvernaz adds he refused to compromise his principles or ethics, saying his beliefs cost him the job without going into greater detail.

City officials announced Monday Alvernaz, a nearly 30-year veteran of the Elmira Police Department, would be removed and replaced by his deputy Kris Thorne, who was named acting chief.