Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department (SCMPD) announced on Thursday September 9, that the Police Policy Committee appointed Assistant Chief Willie Lovett Interim Chief of Metro Police. Lovett assumed command as Interim Chief on Tuesday, September 15.

Willie Lovett Chief of Police Michael Berkow will take personal leave beginning September 15 until his resignation becomes effective October 10.

The Police Policy Committee members are Mayor Otis Johnson, Chatham County Commission Chairman Pete Liakakis, County Manger Russ Abolt and City Manager Michael Brown. The committee has expressed full confidence in Lovett's ability to assume command of the department citing his more than 30 years experience as a Police Officer and successes while serving as Interim Chief in 2006.

The committee noted that Chief Berkow has dedicated his life to the department and community during his tenure, working 365 days a year, seven days a week. Committee staff also noted that Berkow is taking a welldeserved vacation to spend time with his family prior to assuming his position as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Altegrity Security Consulting (ASC). ASC is a new business unit in Altegrity.