Acting City of Pullman Police Chief Aaron Breshears has been confirmed as the permanent chief following a unanimous vote by the Pullman City Council on Tuesday. Mayor Francis Benjamin nominated Breshears for the position, and he is scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday at 3:30 PM at city hall. The Pullman police officers union has expressed support for Breshears’ appointment.

Breshears takes over the role from Jake Opgenorth, who resigned two weeks prior. Opgenorth had been placed on paid administrative leave in December pending an investigation by the Washington State Patrol regarding his personal conduct, although specific details of the investigation have not been disclosed. The situation involved a civil dispute that was addressed publicly in court.

Before serving as acting chief, Breshears held the position of Pullman Police Commander and joined the department as an officer in 1999.