KEARNEY, Neb. --

The city of Kearney is searching for a new Chief of Police, because Bryan Waugh was named the next superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol.

Gov. Jim Pillen says Waugh was chosen from a pool of four finalists. Waugh has over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, serving in a wealth of roles on the force during his tenure, and is a veteran of the United States Air Force.

“Chief Waugh brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience, marked by innovation, collaboration, and a public servant’s heart,” said Gov. Pillen. “As Kearney’s chief for six years, he has led a growing department, managed a $13 million budget, achieved accreditation, and launched programs like the Mental Health Co-Responder Initiative and a citywide license plate reader system that sparked a statewide effort. His leadership during the 2019 flood kept Kearney safe while strengthening community trust. I am confident we’ve chosen the right person to lead the Patrol and build on its 88-year-old legacy.”

Following the appointment of then Mayor Stan Clouse, Chief Waugh took over the Kearney Police Department in 2019. He was recently recognized by the FBI National Academy with a Centurion Award for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to law enforcement.

“The things that Bryan brought to our city are incredible. What stands out to me most is his professionalism. You can see that in the officers he hired and in the culture that he changed," said Clouse, who is now a state senator representing District 37. "We are going to miss him in Kearney, and I think the state will be very pleased with the leadership role that Bryan is taking on."

Colonel John Bolduc is stepping down because he has reached the age of 60, a mandatory retiring age for the patrol. Bolduc served in his role since 2017.

“I’m proud of the work our team has done and the constant effort our troopers, investigators, and professional staff put forth every day to serve Nebraskans," Bolduc said. "As this chapter of the agency closes and a new one begins under Chief Waugh’s leadership, I have no doubt that our team will remain dedicated to providing excellent public service and our shared mission to keep Nebraska safe.”

Waugh will begin his duties on June 2, where he hopes to recruit and retain quality employees.

“I am incredibly humbled, proud, and honored by the faith Governor Pillen has placed in me to become the 19th colonel of the Nebraska State Patrol," said Waugh. "This storied organization's professional men and women are first-class, dedicated, committed, and driven toward providing the highest level of public safety and professional services for the entire state of Nebraska."