Stonington ― The Board of Police Commissioners on Tuesday night appointed Todd Olson as the department’s new deputy chief.

A 25-year veteran of the department, Olson has served as captain since 2014.

Olson’s promotion come after the board created the deputy chief position in September to meet increased administrative demands due to new state and federal legislation including the 2020 Police Accountability Act.

Chief of Police Jay DelGrosso has said the new position offers opportunities for career advancement and helps the department plan for future staffing changes due to department members reaching the age of retirement. The department currently has 3 sergeants and a captain eligible for retirement, and 2 lieutenants who will be eligible in 2 1/2 years.

The board also elevated Lt. Bryan Schneider, a 21-year veteran, to captain, a job description which was changed in September, to include oversight of accreditation requirements for officers. These requirements were previously handled by a union position which generates overtime.

Schneider had been one of the two finalists along with DelGrosso for the chief’s position earlier this year.

Sgt. Timothy Marley was promoted to fill the lieutenant position left vacant by Schneider’s promotion, and Officer Ryan Rodgers was elevated to sergeant.

A promotional ceremony will be held Monday, November 14 at 4 pm at the Mystic Seaport Museum Meeting House.