ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Former Rochester Police Chief Cedric Alexander has endorsed Malik Evans in the upcoming democratic primary election for Rochester mayor.

Alexander also served as deputy mayor under current Mayor Lovely Warren, who is running for re-election.

“I support Malik Evans for mayor 100%," said Alexander on Tuesday. "You have a young man here who has the skillset, all the abilities and all the support to move the city forward in the 21st century. There comes a time to turn the page, and the time is now. It is time to elect Malik Evans for Mayor of Rochester. Malik will give that community all that he has, has always been a leader that people respect, and is the best option for Rochester."

“Cedric has spent a lifetime as a committed public servant, trying to keep our streets safe and improve the nature of policing," said Evans in a statement. "He has been on the forefront of innovative policing techniques and was a champion of increased mental health services and funding. Cedric has been a trusted advisor for years, and has always answered the call from Rochester. It means the world to me to have his full support and endorsement.”

Alexander says he will not serve in Evans' administration if the city council member wins the election.

Mayor Lovely Warren posted a video statement on Facebook in response to Alexander's endorsement of Evans.