A new second-in-command has been appointed to the Bermuda Police Service as Commissioner George Jackson prepares to step down from his post mid-month.

Assistant Police Commissioner Mike Jackman will take the reins as Deputy Commissioner on December 16, after almost three decades of service within the force. Deputy Commissioner Michael DeSilva will be taking over the head position after Commissioner Jackson's retirement.

Mr. Jackman told The Royal Gazette: "I'm elated that the Governor has that level of confidence in me to do the job and am committed to providing any support required to the Commissioner."

Yesterday Governor Richard Gozney also spoke about the appointment and said: "Mr. Jackman had served with distinction in the Bermuda Police Service for 27 years and has the confidence of his colleagues, both senior officers and junior officers.

"His oversight and direction of the Bermuda Police Service's Community Policing, which is getting into its stride, has been commendable and shows real promise. He will be taking his responsibility for Community Policing with him to the Deputy Commissioner level."

Barbadian Mr. Jackman began with the Bermuda Police Service in 1982 in the traffic department. He went on to serve in Community and Juvenile Services, as well as the central and western parish constable unit.

He also chaired the BPA from 1996 to 1999; after which he was promoted to Inspector in 2001 and was responsible for heading the Research, Development and Innovation Unit.

It was during this time, he was able to work with the Commissioner on a number of projects including the Service's Strategic Plan 2002 — 2004.

Mr. Jackman holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Policing and Police Studies from the University of Portsmouth and is currently enrolled in a Master of Science Program in Police Science & Management.