LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The chief deputy in the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office has been named as Lincoln’s new police chief.

Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler announced Monday that 43-year-old Jeffrey Bliemeister will begin his new role in the Lincoln Police Department on April 26, after receiving approval from the City Council.

Bliemeister was chosen among six finalists and will replace Jim Peschong, who retired in February.

Bliemeister has been chief deputy since 2012 and began his career in law enforcement in 1996.

The Lincoln Police Department has about 460 staff members.