Interim Pflugerville ISD Superintendent Gary Patterson named Patrick Petherbridge as PfISD's third-ever police chief.

Petherbridge has served since 1998 with the Pflugerville Police Department. He was a part of the patrol division, but also served within patrol and K-9 units. Petherbridge also served as a field training officer, patrol sergeant and supervisor of Professional Standards Division.

Petherbridge said he has more than 3,800 hours of training in law enforcement and has attended the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas.

The new police chief will be sworn into office during the Feb. 16 PfISD board meeting to replace Jason Smith, who was promoted to Commander within PPD.

"The safety of the students and staff is paramount, and I will work to foster positive relationships with students and staff, building on the foundation of excellence put in place by Lt. Edwards and Commander Smith," Petherbridge said.