The City of Bedford announced Tuesday the selection of Bobby LaPenna as the City’s new police chief.  LaPenna, who had been serving as interim police chief since June, following the departure of his predecessor, Jeff Williams, was selected Tuesday by City Manager Andrea Roy to fill the position permanently.

Mayor Dan Cogan commented that “with nearly 25 years of dedicated service to the Bedford Police Department, Chief LaPenna brings a deep understanding of the department’s operations and culture, while also being a driving force behind its recent progress.”  Cogan added that “we are excited to see Bedford PD’s next chapter unfold under his leadership.”

Beginning his tenure with the Bedford Police Department in 2000 as a detention officer, LaPenna has experienced “all facets of police work,” according to a statement released by the City of Bedford.

LaPenna’s first steps as chief of police, the statement said, will be to find a deputy chief and to “focus on addressing the department’s structural needs and staffing levels to achieve its purpose and vision.”

“We couldn’t have found a more qualified candidate than Bobby LaPenna to lead our police department,” said Bedford City Manager Andrea Roy.  “With a profound historical and operational knowledge of the city, he is a progressive, forward-thinking leader and a lifelong learner, always striving to improve.  His transparency, accountability and strong relationships with city staff make him the ideal choice to hit the ground running and continue fostering an inclusive, trustworthy and equitable department.”