In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Pittsburgh wasn’t exactly a known haven for LGBTQ+ people, despite what shows like “Queer as Folk” might suggest. After finishing college, I briefly worked in the Pittsburgh area and would often meet friends in downtown Pittsburgh for happy hour. After a few drinks, I’d quietly slip away and head to a gay bar. It took a while to remember the name, but I believe it was the only one in the city at the time. I still can’t recall how I even found the place. I do remember one night when I was slightly buzzed, I drove the wrong way on a one-way street and found myself face-to-face with a police car with flashing lights. Somehow, I didn’t get arrested, and that was my only encounter with the Pittsburgh police.
Years later, I spoke with the city’s current police chief, Larry Scirotto, who is Pittsburgh’s first openly gay police chief. Surprisingly, he and I shared a similar secret: he used to sneak into that same gay bar 30 years ago. He mentioned that the bar’s name was Pegasus and recalled entering incognito, wearing a hat pulled down low over his head. But over time, he became comfortable enough to leave the disguise at home.
Scirotto was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and he was appointed the city’s police chief one year ago by Mayor Ed Gainey. He was confirmed by the City Council and sworn in as a Pittsburgh police officer back in 1995. In 2018, he retired as an assistant chief after working his way up through various leadership roles. His journey included a brief stint as police chief in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he was dismissed over allegations of promoting minority officers over white male officers. He insists he promoted officers based on merit, and his lawsuit against Fort Lauderdale was dismissed. Pittsburgh called him back after a nationwide search, recognizing his deep ties to the city and his prior experience with the police department.
Under Scirotto’s leadership, the city has seen some positive changes. Since he took over, homicides have decreased by 21%, and nonfatal shootings are down by 17%. He also received praise for his handling of student protests around the University of Pittsburgh linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Reflecting on his journey, Scirotto shared his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as chief in his hometown. He admitted that when he left in 2018, he never thought he’d return to law enforcement, let alone to Pittsburgh. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime privilege,” he said, especially for someone from the LGBTQ+ community.
I told Scirotto that, back in the day, I never imagined that my old stomping grounds would have a gay police chief. My memories of Pittsburgh were of a city that wasn’t particularly accepting. However, Scirotto had a different perspective. He said Pittsburgh was always welcoming to him, even when he became the first openly gay male police officer. He didn’t face any negative experiences and always felt supported. Now, the department is preparing to hire its first transgender officer, a testament to the progress made.
Scirotto’s interest in law enforcement began when he was a teenager, even though no one in his family had worked in the field. He remembered an encounter with police officers who stopped to chat with him and his friends, a moment that left a lasting impression. He stayed in touch with those officers, which influenced his career path.
Growing up, Scirotto didn’t know anyone else who was gay, and he feared that someone would find out he was different. His first visit to Pegasus was a turning point, where he met others like him and formed lifelong friendships. Over time, he became more comfortable with himself and no longer needed to hide.
Now, as chief, Scirotto understands the importance of representation. He recognizes that he serves as a role model for young people who may not see many gay leaders in law enforcement. He hopes that his position will inspire others and lead to more representation within the police force.
Scirotto lives in Pittsburgh with his partner of 13 years and their two dogs. He said they’ve always felt welcomed by the city and its people, but he knows there’s still work to be done to ensure the police department is inclusive and welcoming to all. He offered words of encouragement to those struggling with their sexuality, reminding them to keep their heads up and never be ashamed of who they are. Scirotto aims to be a role model and a source of hope for the next generation, just as others were for him.
