Springfield's police department has chosen its new Superintendent. Mayor Domenic Sarno has announced that Deputy Chief Lawrence Akers will become the top law enforcement officer in the city.
He will replace current Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood, who is retiring later this year.
Sarno praised Akers' professionalism and leadership in making his choice and anticipates a smooth transition.
Akers has served the department for 38 years and will become the first African-American to lead the agency.
Akers told reporters that he will have an "open door policy" with the people of Springfield. He said as a veteran of the department and a Springfield native he knows what the problems are and will work to solve them. He also acknowledged the city's murder rate. He said it's not just a Springfield issue but one that is nationwide that he will work toward stopping.
His service includes time with the Metro, Traffic and Motorcycle and Special Victims Units, and was the first supervisor of the Gaming Enforcement Unit.
(Photo provided by Springfield Mayor's Office)