Phillips was found dead in the Market St. apartment he shared with his mother.

Reached by phone yesterday, Tischler wouldn’t comment on where the investigation is now. Earlier this month he told the Daily Courier-Observer police were beginning to close in on one person, and were building their case.

Tischler says that investigation has nothing to do with his leaving the department.

"That has no bearing on my decision," Tischler says. "I have no idea why that’s being brought up but it has nothing to do with my decision. We’re still investigating the case and…I’m hoping we can put closure on this before I leave. Obviously I’d like to but that has no bearing on my decision."

Tischler says he hasn’t yet accepted a specific position, but he’s planning to do private investigative work when he leaves the Police Department:

"You know after 24 years in law enforcement, over 21 in the Village of Potsdam, other career opportunities I was interested in pursuing after I retired arose, and I felt this was a good opportunity for me to step down and pursue those opportunities and a second career."

Potsdam Village Administrator David Fenton says he expects the chief’s position to be filled by the time Tischler steps down in March. Tischler joined the Potsdam Police force 21 years ago; he became chief in 2010.