A Massachusetts police chief who was honored by the White House for his pioneering approach to heroin addiction will be allowed to retire after misleading investigators looking into allegations of improper behavior with two women.

Gloucester Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken announced Thursday she's reversed her Monday decision to begin termination proceedings against Chief Leonard Campanello.

City officials allege Campanello destroyed cellphone evidence and took other steps to deceive investigators looking into the women's complaints, which they haven't described.

In press conference Thursday, Campanello thanked supporters and said he's retiring for the sake of his family and health.

"Not only is my retirement in the best interest of myself and my family, but it will ensure the city of Gloucester may move forward in a manner that the administration believes is best for the community," Campanello said.

Campanello will remain on paid leave until he retires Jan. 3.

Deputy Chief John McCarthy will oversee the department as interim chief, and the innovative heroin addiction treatment program that Campanello founded will continue.

With reporting by the Associated Press and the WBUR Newsroom