THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, December 19, 1995 TAG: 9512190360
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B2 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Briefs
DATELINE: SUFFOLK LENGTH: Short : 29 lines
For the first time in the city's history, an African American has been appointed to the second-highest position in the police department.
Police Capt. William A. Freeman, 48, will become major in January, Suffolk Police Chief Gilbert F. Jackson announced at a press conference Monday.
``Freeman was just the best person for the job,'' Jackson said.
``He has excellent qualities and he's dedicated to the community and dedicated to the citizens.''
Jackson said race had nothing to do with Freeman's appointment.
The promotion places Freeman, a 24-year veteran of the force, second in command under Jackson.
The promotion comes after Maj. William Dunning announced he was retiring at the end of the year.
Freeman, a Suffolk native, heads the uniform patrol division.
He also has served as lieutenant of the patrol division, the detective bureau and the special investigations unit. by CNB