(La Porte, IN) -  The interim police chief in La Porte was officially appointed to the job on a permanent basis just eight days after the former chief resigned.

 

Matthew Drangmeister, a 17-year member of the department, was sworn-in Wednesday at City Hall by Mayor Tom Dermody, who cited his dedication and experience in many levels at the department as among the reasons for the quick decision.

 

“I have no doubt in my mind that Matt will greet each new challenge with the tenacity and the commitment that the chief’s position requires,” Dermody said.

Detective Jim Ferguson, a 20 year member of the department, was chosen to be the assistant chief.

 

Drangmeister, 41, was assistant chief under Dick Buell, who came out of retirement just over a year ago to lead the young department.

 

After the ceremony, Drangmeister said among his top priorities is for him and Ferguson, 51, to work the streets several times a month to eliminate a natural bridge that can exist between patrol officers and the administration.

 

He also felt working patrols will lead to better decision making by him and his second in command.

 

“It’s important so you don’t lose touch with what’s important, our front line,” he said.

 

Drangmeister began his law enforcement career as a jail officer at the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office when Buell was the jail commander. 

 

The appointment of Buell was not popular, initally, with the La Porte Fraternal Order of Police, because the new chief, historically, was chosen from within the department. 

 

Drangmeister said he was excited, though, when Buell was appointed because of the time he worked for him as a jail officer.

 

"I knew when I found out that he was going to be the chief of police that I would stand behind him and support him.  I learned a lot from him," he said.