TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) -- The top cop is retiring in Toledo, and his chosen successor would be the first black police chief for Ohio's fourth-largest city.

Fifty-six-year-old Assistant Chief Derrick Diggs is Mayor Mike Bell's pick to take over from police Chief Mike Navarre (nuh-VAHR'). He announced Wednesday he'll retire Oct. 21 after heading the police department for 13 years.

The Blade newspaper ( http://bit.ly/pUZ8hY ) quotes Diggs as saying he's honored to be the first African-American selected for the chief's job and is honored to serve the citizens of Toledo. His appointment must be confirmed by the city council.

The 55-year-old Navarre says he opted to leave because staying on would be an "unwise financial decision" because his retirement plan limits the time people can work after signing up and still receive full benefits.

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Information from: The Blade, http://www.toledoblade.com/