By Khalida Sarwari
The city of Morgan Hill has appointed a 15-year Police Department veteran to serve as its new police chief.
David Swing, currently a Morgan Hill police commander, beat out 64 other applicants for the job. He will begin his assignment on Jan. 3.
“I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to lead the department and serve as a team member on the city’s executive team,” Swing said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the members of the department and community to chart the course for the future of our organization.”
City Manager Ed Tewes praised Swing for his demonstrated leadership and commitment to the department and the community.
Swing started with the Police Department nearly 15 years ago as a reserve officer. He worked his way up to police commander in 2006.
He also serves as an instructor at the South Bay Regional Safety Training Consortium.
In 2008, Swing was named Morgan Hill’s employee of the year for his efforts in securing grants, reducing the department’s patrol overtime budget, and creating several revenue-generating programs.
Swing received a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in public administration from San Jose State University. Earlier this year, he completed the state’s Peace Officer Standards and Training Command College program.
Swing lives in Hollister with his wife and two daughters.