MIAMI, March 1 (UPI) -- Miami Gardens, Fla. Police Chief Stephen Johnson blamed stress for the poor decision-making that led to him being arrested for soliciting a prostitute Friday. Johnson was fired shortly after his arrest.

He was taken into custody at a South Florida motel during a sting operation conducted by the Broward County Sheriff's Office.


Upon being released from jail on Saturday morning, Johnson spoke to reporters waiting outside the jail. According to the Miami Herald he said, "The stress overwhelmed me, and I made a very bad decision to deal with that moment I've never experienced before."

His statement vaguely referred to two high-profile cases where his police force was criticized. Just last week, an unmarked Miami Gardens police car struck a 10-year girl. In another, a Miami Beach police officer shot and killed a mentally ill man leading protesters to march on City Hall.

Family members are also coming to Johnson's defense. On Twitter, Johnson's niece, with the handle @thatsmissmeoww, spoke out on Johnson's behalf by writing, "He mentors many young men, gives money to people in need, protects lives daily, helps out in his community, uplifts his big family, a dynamic educator, and is a God fearing man. Nobody is perfect."

According to the arrest report, Johnson first spoke by phone with an undercover officer who offered a 30-minute session for $60, but he negotiated a deal for two women for $100. He then showed up at the motel and was arrested after giving the officer $100. Police said they found two condoms in Johnson's back pocket.

Miami Gardens is a town of around 105,000 people between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. An assistant chief will temporarily head the police department.