By Paula Grubbs

Eagle Staff Reporter

ADAMS TWP — Adams has a new police chief, and he has 16 years experience in the township.

The township supervisors Monday night voted assistant chief Shawn Anglum to the top job, which was vacated in January when Bill Westerman retired after 33 years.

Anglum has been assistant chief since 2009, when he was promoted from sergeant.

He started in the township in 2000 as a part-time patrol officer, and was promoted to full time in 2002. Anglum was promoted to sergeant in 2006.

“I’m honored that the board made me chief,” Anglum said. “I look forward to working with the board and the police department to ensure the township remains the safe place that it is.”

Sgt. Robert Scanlon was promoted to assistant chief.

Scanlon started his employment as a part-time patrolman in July 1996, and for a time also worked part-time on the public works crew.

He was promoted in 2002 to full-time status in the police department and to sergeant in 2009.

Scanlon said he was thrilled for Anglum, and humbled by the board’s confidence in him.

“It’s a good feeling to know the board views me as an asset to the township,” Scanlon said.

Ed Lenz was promoted to sergeant. He was hired as a part-time patrolman in 2009, and promoted to full-time status the next year.

“I feel honored that I was picked,” Lenz said of his promotion. “I’m excited to learn as I go and help Shawn accomplish his goals.”

Linda Lees, supervisor in charge of police matters, is thrilled that the 18-person police force has new and knowledgeable leaders.

“I’m very proud of these gentlemen, and there are going to be great changes in the Adams Township police force,” she said.

The promotions are effective immediately.