New top cop for Nelson

A big day for a Nelson police officer.

Paul Burkart has been sworn in as the department’s 21st Chief Constable.

He spoke after a formal ceremony at Nelson’s court house Friday afternoon.

When he joined the NPD 16 years ago as a beat officer there was no expectation of promotion , let alone one day becoming the top cop.

Burkart says the NPD may be small compared to those in big cities but the job is no less important and there is a small management team that juggles lots of responsibilities.  He succeeds Wayne Holland who has retired.

*Picture – New Chief Constable Paul Burkart stands behind outgoing Chief Constable Wayne Holland as Sgt Dino Falcone conducts formalities. ( credit- Joy Barrett )