Sixty-two candidates across the country have submitted resumes in hopes of becoming Portsmouth’s next police chief. Police Commissioner,  Joe Onosko said that the resumes have been submitted to the International Association of Police Chiefs and were later reviewed by the commissioners. Although it is sad for them to say goodbye to Chief David Mara, commissioners are looking forward to finding someone who can fill those shoes. In April, city representatives including Mara, and local law enforcement officials and members of the IACP, will conduct interviews for the six finalists. A panel will include city-elected officials, and more importantly, community members.

The new chief is expected to start the job in mid-June.

For people who want to participate in the selection of the city’s new chief, it is important to remember all of the requirements needed for becoming a police chief. These include a master’s degree, 12 years in law enforcement, and management of prior police departments.

After interviewing sophomore Drew Hudson, he said a police chief should be “a nice person” and “constantly on top of major situations in the town,” when asked what qualities he would want in a police chief.