LITTLETON, Colo. (CBS4)- CBS4 has learned that the Littleton Police Department’s first female Chief, Heather Coogan, and her two top commanders, will be leaving the department.

“They’re taking the opportunity to retire,” said Littleton City Councilman Bruce Beckman who says the city manager informed him Thursday of the news.

Beckman said he was informed by email that Coogan would be stepping down along with Division Chief of Investigations Bill Christensen and Division Chief of Patrol Bob Brandt.

Beckman said he was told that all three would be leaving their positions at the end of March or start of April. Asked if it was unusual for three top commanders to decide to leave at the same time,

Beckman said “It’s not familiar to me.”

Coogan has been Littleton Chief since 2007.

CBS4 was not able to reach her by phone Thursday evening.

- Written by Brian Maass for CBSDenver.com