Gainesville Police Department named its new second in command Tuesday morning.

Capt. Paul Sherman, a 23-year veteran of the department, has been named major and assistant chief, replacing Gerald Couch who resigned in December.

Chief Brian Kelly selected Sherman from several internal candidates, according to a news release from the department.

Kelly said Sherman was selected for his experience with the department and the community and for his education.
"He has served in all facets of the Police Department," Kelly said.

Sherman has held numerous positions with the department including overseeing its accreditation and state certification processes as well as working field operations. He also has completed management training, graduating from the Georgia Chiefs of Police Chief Executive Training Program. Since the position was vacated late last year, Sherman has served as interim major.

"He's been doing an excellent job with those responsibilities," Kelly said.

Sherman said he is excited about the promotion and about being a part of the future successes of the agency. He will begin the job on Monday.

His new duties will include assisting Kelly with planning and directing daily operations.

Sherman's career began when he served in the Army's 82nd Airborne Division. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., before moving to Gainesville and joining the Police Department in 1988.

Sherman said he decided he wanted to work in law enforcement before he finished high school. He said he was impressed with the "serving heart" public safety officials brought to their work.

"I'm always impressed with people in public safety; they have a big heart for kids and for the elderly. It's always appealed to me," Sherman said.

Sherman said that though his recent promotion is a positive move for him, it is twofold because it leaves another position open for "well deserving people who need that opportunity."

Sherman intends to draw from his previous experiences to improve and streamline some areas by using technological advancements. He also hopes to improve and develop relationships within the community.

Kelly said Sherman will be a great asset.

"I look forward to Paul and I working hand-in-hand to ensure the Gainesville Police Department is delivering professional police services, making our community safe for all of our citizens and visitors," Kelly said.

Sherman is a Rhode Island native. He is married and has five children.