Syracuse fire Chief Craig Cottrell was charged Thursday with illegally obtaining prescription drugs.

Cottrell, who had been chief for five years, resigned Thursday, citing health reasons, said City Manager Robert Rice.

"We accepted his resignation," Rice said. "We're sorry to see him go. He's a great fire chief and a great leader for the city and we wish him the best."

Cottrell, 46, was charged in 2nd District Court with two counts of illegally obtaining a prescription under false pretenses.

Cottrell received at least two prescriptions for controlled substances from different medical providers without informing the other, according to charging documents.

The alleged crimes occurred between Dec. 10, 2010, and Nov. 3, charges state.

The counts are third-degree felonies punishable by up to five years in prison. Cottrell's first court appearance is set for Feb. 1.

Rice said Cottrell previously served as an assistant chief in Paige, Ariz., before accepting the full-time, paid chief's job in Syracuse.

Rice said the city plans to start the process of hiring a new fire chief by posting the job opening Monday. Meanwhile, Rice said, Syracuse Assistant Chief Bruce Peterson will lead the department.

jstecklein@sltrib.com