Birmingham police Chief A.C. Roper announced late Wednesday morning that he is stepping down from his post.

Roper said he will stay on for the next few months as Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin begins the search for a new chief.

"Several weeks ago, all department heads were given a choice to apply for reappointment to their positions," Roper said in a statement. "However, after a considerable amount of prayer, my family and I decided I would not submit a resume for consideration. I advised Mayor Woodfin on Nov. 8th that this is perfect timing since Nov. 26th would be my 10-year anniversary. Serving as Chief of Police in the amazing city of my birth has been the privilege of a lifetime. My family and I are extremely proud of and grateful to the officers, professional staff members, citizens and partner agencies who have supported me through my tenure.

He added: "Mayor Woodfin has been extremely gracious and has asked me to continue to serve and assist him as he begins the search for a new Police Chief over the coming months."

During a Wednesday afternoon press conference, Woodfin said Roper has served with distinction and without scandal. He called him a "great man" and "great leader."

"I personally honor his service," he said. "We should all honor his service."

Woodfin said Roper's departure allows the city the opportunity to "take a fresh look at solutions to address one of the most pressing issues facing our city, which we all know is crime."

Crime remains one of his top priorities, the mayor said.

Woodfin said a national search for a "world-class" chief will be conducted. Internal candidates will also be considered.

He said the city will take its time in searching for the right police chief. Woodfin said a search could take 90 to 100 days.

In a Wednesday morning statement, Woodfin said: "We are extremely grateful to the lifetime of service Chief Roper has given to our nation and city, and we appreciate his support and counsel during this transition process."

Woodfin heavily criticized the way Birmingham is policed on the campaign trail leaving much speculation that Roper's job could be in jeopardy.

Woodfin was sworn in as mayor on Tuesday, Nov. 28. He defeated William Bell in the Oct. 3 runoff election.

Woodfin has promised that crime would be addressed differently under his leadership. He said more uniformed officers would be on the streets.

Roper has served as Birmingham police chief for 10 years. He is currently out of town.

Roper began his law enforcement career 32 years ago, in 1985, with the Montgomery Police Department.

Three years later, Roper joined the Hoover Police Department. In Hoover, Roper served two years as a patrol officer, two years as a narcotics investigator, four years as a traffic sergeant, four years as the training lieutenant, three years as commander of the traffic and patrol divisions and two years as commander over investigative services.

Roper was named assistant chief in Hoover in April 2005.

Mayor Larry Langford appointed Roper as chief of the Birmingham Police Department in November 2007.

Roper serves as a major general in the Army Reserve.

Roper is also the recipient of numerous military awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star and the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award, which is given annually to the top U.S. Army officers in the nation.