Lt. John Hatfill, a 27- year-old veteran of the University Police Department, was appointed interim chief of police, according to an Eastern press release sent Tuesday.

Hatfill was the only working lieutenant for UPD and stepped up to the position after Adam Due, the former police chief, and Lt. Phil Lang retired on the same day.

Hatfill officially replaced Due after he retired on Dec. 31 and will serve as head of the department until June 30 or until the position is permanently filled.

Lynette Drake, the interim associate vice president for student affairs, appointed Hatfill because he had the greatest amount of administrative experience among the remaining police employees.

“I was very happy he was interested in the position,” Drake said. “I was excited he was willing to offer his services.”

After interviewing Hatfill and speaking to him about his interests, Drake said he has an excellent working relationship with the university community, the officers and community partners.

“He is a wonderful person, extremely competent and he has a tremendous amount of history with the university, a great love for the university and has a passion for the work that the police department does for students,” Drake said.

Drake said Hatfill also has ideas and different ways for providing services to students.

“I respect him for his willingness to serve EIU,” Drake said.

Hatfill said the position would have challenges, especially with the budgetary issues facing the university as a whole, according to the press release.

“I realize there will be difficulties, but I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to moving the department forward,” Hatfill said in the press release.

Hatfill joined UPD in January 1989 as a patrol officer and rapidly advanced in rank to his most recent position as patrol lieutenant/director of parking operations, according to the press release.

Analicia Haynes can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].