The City of Newburgh is now ushering in a new era at its police department with the promotion of a longtime lieutenant to chief.

Brandon Rola was hired as chief on Friday, one week after the sudden resignation of Anthony Geraci, who took a top security job with Newburgh schools.

“Chief Rola represents the very best of the police department,” says City of Newburgh Chief of Staff Mike Neppl.

The 38-year-old decorated department veteran has climbed the ranks in the City of Newburgh since starting as a rookie officer in 2008.

“We have reduced the number of shots fired incidents,” says Rola. “We will continue to drive those numbers down. We really want to make the quality of life here better.”

Rola inherits several issues in Newburgh between tackling crime and department staffing levels.

“In 2024, the police department will be at full staff, if not very close, and that alone is amazing,” Rola says.

The new chief said during a news conference announcing his appointment Monday that the department has roughly 71 sworn police officers: a number the city hasn’t seen in years and is looking to keep.

City leaders also addressed concerns about the lack of transparency when it comes to crime.

“As we move along with the new chief, we are always going to look at how to improve operationally and that will be part of the assessment process,” says Neppl.

“I was genuinely surprised,” says Cynthia Gilkeson, chairperson of the Newburgh Police Community Review Board. “I hope he can lead well.”

Rola was hired by City Manager Todd Venning.

“I’m truly humbled to be trusted with this position,” says Rola. “I feel the weight of these stars.”