Newly hired full-time Police Chief Richard Stanley was sworn into his post Monday. The ceremony took place on the front steps of the Wareham Police Station before members of the Board of Selectmen, Town Administrator Mark Andrews, and other town officials.

Stanley had been the Interim Police Chief in Wareham since August of 2009. On April 12,  he was voted upon favorably for the full-time position at a of the Board of Selectmen.

"I am looking forward to the challenge," Stanley said after the ceremony. "It's a privilege to lead the Wareham Police force."

Stanley said he is looking forward to bringing his knowledge and experience in law enforcement to the Town of Wareham, having served as the Chief of Police in North Andover for 25 years.

During his time in Wareham, Stanley is credited with helping the police department earn state certification, obtaining a fleet of new police cruisers, revitalizing the department's K-9 Unit, and adding bike and foot patrol officers to the streets during the summer months.

Stanley is active in many community and professional law enforcement organizations and is a recipient of the George L. Hanna Memorial Award for bravery.