LEWISTON — Why wait? On the very first day of the new year, a new face will appear in the deputy chief’s office at the Lewiston Police Department.

Not entirely new, however.

Brian O’Malley, announced Wednesday as the new second in command, has been with the department for 25 years, much of that time serving as detective and later, head of the Criminal Investigation Division.

O’Malley is replacing James Minkowsky, another 25-year veteran, who is retiring from the deputy chief position.

As a longtime detective, O’Malley has worked on some of the most notorious criminal cases to vex the city over recent decades. As head of the CID, he was also in charge of investigating internal matters. That deep experience is part of the reason he was named to the new position, according to Chief Michael Bussiere.

“Brian O’Malley is a consummate professional,” Bussiere said, “and is well-respected both inside and outside of the law enforcement community. I have every confidence that he will excel in this new role as he helps lead the dedicated men and women of the Lewiston Police Department in service to our community.”

Over the past quarter century, O’Malley was worked as a patrol officer, detective, patrol sergeant and, most recently, sergeant of detectives. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Providence College and attended the command training program at Roger Williams University.

O’Malley also has advanced training in crisis negotiation and practical homicide investigations. He is certified as a civil rights officer.

Outside of the department, O’Malley has been a key supporter of the Special Olympics of Maine for more than 20 years and was inducted as a volunteer to the Special Olympics Hall of Fame.

Additionally, the former detective received the Colonel Award from Maine State Police, the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Award and the Community Advocate Award for his work with the Androscoggin County Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team.

O’Malley will officially assume his new position New Year’s Day.

“I am deeply appreciative of the confidence shown in me by the chief, the members of the Lewiston Police Department and the city of Lewiston,” O’Malley said. “Working with Chief Bussiere and the men and women of the department, I know that we will continue to proudly and effectively serve the citizens of Lewiston by providing a professional and caring police department.”