PORT RICHEY - The city's second-ranking police officer was named chief Tuesday night.
Lt. Bill Sager replaces Bill Downs, who was fired Oct. 31.
City Manager Vince Lupo gave the job to Sager after a brief discussion with the City Council.
"Lt. Sager has done an absolutely admirable job with respect to his interim position," Lupo said.
Sager, 47, joined the Port Richey Police Department in 1985 and has long been second in command. Sager agreed to accept the job, which pays about $49,000 a year. Lupo does not intend to hire a new lieutenant.
Sager assumes the role at a controversial time for the Police Department.
Lupo said he fired Downs for insubordination, but Downs has said the dismissal was motivated by politics. During his tenure, he became known for investigations of alleged impropriety in city government.
