EAST PROVIDENCE — Christopher Francesconi has been promoted to become the new Deputy Chief to East Providence Police Department by Mayor Bob DaSilva, the administration announced Friday afternoon, May 17.

His completes the transition for the upper command staff, joining Chief William Nebus at the top of the department’s hierarchy. Chief Nebus was elevated from the Deputy post following the retirement of Christopher Parella earlier this year. Like his predecessor in the position Deputy Chief. Francesconi assumes the rank of major.

“It’s a true honor to be selected as a leader of such a fine and dedicated group of professionals,” Deputy Chief Francesconi said. “I look forward to working closely with Chief Nebus to continue the proud tradition of the East Providence Police Department and exceptional service to the citizens of East Providence.”

Major Francesconi was chosen as the new deputy after a recommendation by a panel of law enforcement officials and interviews with multiple candidates, the administration wrote in a press release announcing the move.

“Christopher Francesconi has spent nearly 20 years serving the city’s police department with the mentality that wearing the badge is more than just having a job, it’s a sworn dedication to protect public safety with pride and professionalism,” Mayor DaSilva said. “Francesconi has shown that professionalism having served in multiple units over his police career including patrol and vice/narcotics.”

Major Francesconi, who served as an EPPD captain since 2016 both in the Services and Patrol Divisions, has been a member of the EPPD since 2000 when he first joined the force as a patrol officer.

While rising through the ranks from officer to deputy chief, he spent 15 years as a member of the Special Reaction Team, became a FBI-Certified firearms instructor and for some time stepped into the role of supervisor of the Field Training and Evaluation Program, among many accomplishments.

Said Chief Nebus, “Captain Francseconi’s promotion to Deputy Chief is a good step for the future of the East Providence Police Department. I have worked with Chris for 19 years and I have observed his persistent work ethic and dedication to this job firsthand. We share the same vision and values for the department and for the citizens of East Providence.”

Deputy Chief Francesconi earned his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Saint Anselm College. He is currently enrolled in the administration of justice program at Salve Regina University and anticipates earning his master’s degree in the fall 2019.