By ARCHIE MOUNTAIN
NEWPORT — It’s official.
Newport’s new Police Chief and new Fire Chief were sworn in Friday afternoon at the Library Arts Center.
Brent Wilmot, Claremont’s former Deputy Police Chief, became Newport’s Chief of Police and Steven Yannuzzi is the new Fire Chief. There were 75 witnesses to the hour-long ceremony at the Library Arts Center.
“It’s really great to be here today,” said Newport Town Manager Hunter Rieseberg.
“Rarely does a Town Manager to get to do this twice at the same time. Lightning struck twice and we hit the daily double,” he continued. “I am a very fortunate personally and professionally,” he added.
Wilmot addressed the crowd with many police officers and officials in attendance. “I’m blown away by all the people here,” he said.
“You have no idea how much it means to me that you are here. I never imagined leaving the City of Claremont. It was an honor to work with you guys for the last 15 years along with the staff and the Claremont Police Commission,” he related.
Wilmot said he was “so thrilled to have the opportunity to work in Newport. The Newport Police Department has a great, enthusiastic staff and Chief Jim Burroughs was very kind to me over the years.”
The 15-year veteran of the Claremont Police Department, Wilmot said he has no plans to make any sweeping changes at the Newport department.
“I am humbled and moved by your support and will give my very best every day,” Chief Wilmot concluded.
Following the ceremony, Chief Wilmot made his way around the room to greet old friends and meet new ones.
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