Posted by Sudbury Northern Life 
Frank Elsner, currently deputy chief of the Greater Sudbury Police Service, will be sworn in as police chief in May 2009.
The current police chief, Ian Davidson, is leaving his position to become Ontario's Commissioner of Community Safety.
"The police services board decided early in the process to conduct an internal search to replace Chief Davidson. The board, along with our current chief, have put in place a very good succession plan, and the logical choice was indeed Deputy Chief Elsner," said Dr. Rayudu Koka, chair of the police services board.
"After a formal interview process, the board unanimously supported Deputy Chief Elsner as the next chief of police." 
Koka added that "Frank has integrated very well into the community and various organizations.  He has a solid education as well as significant operational and managerial experience.  He will fit well into the board's vision for a safe community."
Davidson added that "I am very pleased with the outcome of this process.  I have had two years to work directly with Deputy Elsner.  I know that he is committed to the highest standards of professionalism and truly understands the needs of our northern community.  He has the respect of other police leaders in Ontario, including the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police."
Mayor John Rodriguez was also pleased with the outcome adding that "As the mayor, I and council are sad to see Chief Davidson step down from the office of police chief.  He has done an excellent job and it has been a pleasure working with him.  Having said that, I am confident that Chief Designate Elsner is highly professional, well respected and will continue to work with council and our community in a very pro-active way.  It is a pleasure to welcome him to this very important role.  I would also like to compliment the Police Services Board and Chief Davidson for having the foresight to develop such a strong succession plan.  It will bode well for the future of public safety in Sudbury and beyond."
Elsner was elated and said that "this is a dream come true for me.  It will be such a privilege to serve as the chief of police in one of the most respected police organizations in Ontario.  I am committed to build on this reputation in a way that meets the needs of our community, our province and of course our members. I can't thank the board enough for this opportunity. I also want to express my sincere appreciation to Chief Davidson who has acted as a friend and mentor over the past two years."
