CORTLAND, NY (CortacaToday) — Cortland’s acting police chief is taking over permanently.

Mayor Scott Steve has appointed David Guerrera to officially succeed Paul Sandy, who retired over the summer. Guerrera has spent over 30 years with the Cortland Police Department and was named deputy chief in 2021.

“Chief Guerrera is the right leader at the right time for our community,” said Mayor Scott Steve. “His impressive work ethic and résumé, deep knowledge of the challenges we face, as well as his commitment to addressing the mental health needs and opioid crisis in Cortland makes him uniquely qualified to lead our police department.”

Guerrera’s career in law enforcement began in 1988 as a patrol officer for the Cornell University Police Department. In 1993, he moved to CPD.

“It is an honor to lead an agency filled with dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” Chief Guerrera said. “I look forward to continuing to build on the trust our department has with the public, and to enhancing the culture of support and wellness within our department.”

Cortland’s new chief will be sworn in on Tuesday during the Common Council meeting.