Arizona prison director David Shinn to retire in January

PHOENIX — Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry director David Shinn announced he is retiring from the position early next month.

In an internal letter obtained by ABC 15 on Friday afternoon, Shinn said he is retiring on Jan. 4 after nearly 36 consecutive years of public service.

“I am honored and grateful to each of you for your unwavering belief in me and the trust and confidence you placed in my vision and leadership,” he said in the letter obtained by ABC 15.

“Following careful consideration and conversations with my family whose unwavering support have made my career possible, it is with a heavy heart I am announcing my retirement.”

Shinn was appointed to the role by Gov. Doug Ducey in October 2019 after serving with the Federal Bureau of Prisons since 1991.

“While these past several years have presented many challenges, the time I have spent working alongside each of you has been a labor of love,” the letter read.

“The opportunity to accomplish so much in such a short amount of time will always remain a tremendous source of pride in our Department.”

He said the role, which oversaw more than 7,000 correctional officers and professional staff across the state, was the crowning achievement of his professional career.

Shinn replaced Charles Ryan, who had been under fire for his handling of state prison issues when he announced his retirement in August 2019.

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