Credit: MSC News/Greg Bebermeyer

 

(KNZA)---The City of Hiawatha has officially sworn in its new police chief.

David Villanueva took the oath of office during Monday evening’s City Commission meeting. City Clerk Dawn Boyles administered the ceremony, which was attended by Villanueva’s family.

Commissioners approved his appointment at their April 13th meeting. He will succeed former Chief Mickey Gruber, who retired effective March 31st. Villanueva is scheduled to officially assume command on May 4th.

The new chief brings 31 years of law enforcement experience to the department. He previously served 13 years with the Salina Police Department before accepting the position in Hiawatha.

Following the swearing-in, Villanueva thanked commissioners for the opportunity and said he will do his best to make the community proud.

In related news, Villanueva’s wife, Heather, has been hired as a fifth-grade English Language Arts teacher at Hiawatha Middle School.