East Providence Welcomes News Police Chief

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — The East Providence Police Department named its new chief Thursday. Major William Nebus has served as the department's acting chief since Christopher Parella retired in February. Nebus was sworn in Thursday morning at East Providence City Hall.

"I am privileged to have been chosen to lead the East Providence Police Department," Nebus said. "I have served this city for more than half of my life and I am honored to continue to do so."

Nebus has worked for the department for 26 years, rising to the rank of major and serving in several different departments over the years including the patrol division, community policing unit and was one of the city’s first school resource officers.

In 2003, he was promoted to patrol sergeant, where he served as the Special Reactions Team leader and Internal Affairs sergeant. He was again promoted in 2008, this time to the rank of lieutenant. Six years later, he earned the rank of captain, the same year he was named deputy chief.

"I have been fortunate to work for a diverse group of chiefs during my tenure and I hope to combine all of their strong points into one," Nebus said. "I am lucky to start this job with such a strong, talented group of police officers, detectives, supervisors, dispatchers and non-sworn personnel."

According to a press release from the city, five candidates were interviewed for the position by a panel of law enforcement experts. Nebus was sworn in by East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva on Thursday.

"The process enabled the panel and me to learn firsthand of the incredible talent pool of leaders at the East Providence PD," DaSilva said. "William Nebus has had an exemplary 27 years serving the city’s police department with pride and professionalism. [He] has served in various divisions and has accumulated the experience needed to be an effective leader."

Chief Parella retired from the force on February 15 after serving the department for nearly three decades. He was promoted to chief in 2014.

The department will now begin the search for a replacement deputy chief.