“I know that you will work constructively so this transition proceeds in a smooth manner to the best interests of the DPS as well as the commonwealth,” Fitial said.
In an interview yesterday, Tudela, a retiree who again became DPS commissioner in Aug. 2008 on a pro-bono basis, said he had been trying to tell Fitial about his wish to step down since last week.
But the governor had just been on a medical trip and was too busy, said Tudela who first served as DPS commissioner during the Babauta administration.
Tudela said he is urging all DPS staff to support Mafnas.
He also expressed appreciation for the personnel who remain dedicated to their job despite the austerity measures.
“They have been receiving minimum pay but they continue to protect the community,” Tudela said.
He said the more than three years he spent again at DPS was a challenge due to lack of funding.
Tudela said he understands he is a political appointee who can be replaced anytime.
“Now I’m going back to my private life and become a full-time farmer,” he added.
Variety learned that Fitial is appointing his son-in-law, Police Officer Arnold K. Seman as the acting corrections commissioner.
