HUEYTOWN — An Alabama city has named a veteran lawman as its new police chief.

Al.com reports Mickey Willis, who has been acting chief since September, was appointed to the permanent position at the city council meeting on Dec. 19.

Willis permanently replaces Chuck Hagler, who retired several months earlier.

Willis has served the police department for 33 years and six months. He started his law enforcement career with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, where he served for 2½ years.

Willis says he's honored to serve the city's citizens and blessed to have a "very supportive staff."