Honolulu Police Maj. Ryan Borges this morning rejected his appointment as assistant chief following weeks of controversy.

Chief Louis Kealoha, who had defended Borges’ appointment earlier this month, made the announcement after speaking with Borges.

“He has decided not to accept the upcoming promotion. He said that he does not want the recent controversy to continue to be a disruption and detract from the positive work that the department does.

“Although I still believe that Maj. Borges would make an excellent assistant chief, I respect and understand his choice.”

Kealoha said he is working to find a replacement.

Borges’ appointment came under fire by critics, including state Sen. Will Espero, because the officer was arrested in 1994 for domestic violence. Borges pleaded guilty to second-degree terroristic threatening and received probation.

Kealoha had previously praised the veteran officer, saying Borges “has been honest and open about his past. We’ve all made mistakes in our lives, but what’s important is what we do afterwards.”

However, Espero said Borges’ promotion sends the wrong message about how the department views domestic violence.

Espero also was concerned about a 2014 case involving a temporary restraining order issued against Borges. Allegations of threats were brought by the former boyfriend of Borges’ daughter, which were dismissed in court, said Borges’ attorney for the case, Richard Wurdeman.

Borges came under further scrutiny this month after he sent a letter seeking character references from supporters. In the letter, Borges said he was under “spiritual attack” and referred to Espero as “the enemy.”