WESSON — After serving more than three months as interim policechief, Lance Falvey has taken the helm of the Wesson PoliceDepartment.

“I’m thankful and appreciative of the board (of aldermen) fortheir vote of confidence in me,” he said of the decision that wentinto effect May 22.

Falvey, who also works full-time as an investigator with theLincoln County Sheriff’s Department, filled the position as interimin March after the former chief, Frank Coker, suffered a heartattack while on duty Feb. 27.

“It certainly has been challenging since Chief Coker has beenout sick,” said Falvey, “but I look forward to moving thedepartment forward in the interest of public safety for thetown.”

During the past three months, Falvey has continued the effortCoker started in January with new equipment for the department.

Coker was able to secure a new radio system for the department,allowing officers a chance to step into the 21st century.

“Frank did a lot for the police department. He really left thepolice department in great condition,” said Mayor Bill Tigner.

Falvey continued to advance the department by getting bulletproof vests donated. He also installed a new set of rules to helpthe department stay organized. Officers are required to fill outforms that make it easy to follow their on-duty activities.

“They (officers) have all adapted to it, and it’s working reallygood,” said Falvey.

Falvey has eight years of experience with the Lincoln CountySheriff’s Department, and worked as an officer with the WessonPolice Department for several months.