News 12 sat down with Chief Dan Hyman during his first week as the new Ramapo police chief.

Hyman has been with the department for decades before taking the helm from Martin Reilly.

He is now leading to protect the town he grew up in.

"Growing up in this town, I was exposed to many different cultures, and I think that was a benefit because I can share that with my officers. We even bring people in from the community now to share what certain holidays might be,” said Chief Hyman. "And I think if you better understand the community, you can police them better."

Chief Hyman emphasized community initiatives, especially involving the youngest residents - like bringing back a youth court.

“We want to give people another chance at life. We don't want one little mistake affecting them for the rest of their lives," he says.

Census data estimates there are 152,843 people living in the town, with 39.3% under 18 years old.

Other focuses include the well-being of officers and addressing DWI’s. He said there were four overnight between Wednesday and Thursday.

"We've seen our share of tragedies in this town over the past couple years and throughout my career,” said the chief. “We don't want to have any more tragedies."

Hyman is the ninth chief in the history of the Ramapo Police Department.