Ashley Weaver sworn in as Jacksonville interim police chief

Ashley Weaver was sworn in as interim police chief of the city of Jacksonville at a brief ceremony during which she repeated the oath of office and thanked colleagues, family and community members for their support.

The appointment, announced at the start of the event, places Weaver in charge of the Jacksonville Police Department while the city conducts a search for a permanent chief. A meeting official said the city has confidence in Weaver’s ability to lead during the transition.

Weaver, who told attendees she has worked with the agency for 28 years, thanked ‘‘retired Captain David Teter’’ and other officers for their support. ‘‘Twenty-eight years is a long time to be with an agency and I couldn’t have still be standing here if it wasn’t for people like retired captain David Teter,’’ Weaver said. She added she appreciates the opportunity ‘‘to step in as interim chief’’ and said, ‘‘hopefully we’ll make it permanent later down the road.’’

Captains identified in the ceremony — Captain Funky and Captain Kellum — were invited to pin Weaver’s collar. The ceremony also included a family role: Weaver’s son, Grayson, was invited to place the badge and hold the Bible, and Rose Mars administered the oath.

During the oath, Rose Mars led the recital and Weaver repeated the pledge, saying in part, "I, Ashley Weaver, do solemnly swear that I will be alert and vigilant...that I will support and maintain the Constitution and laws of the United States and the Constitution and laws of North Carolina...and that I will faithfully and impartially discharge and execute the duties of my office." Following the oath, attendees offered congratulations and invitations to come forward to welcome the new interim chief.

The city named several other guests during the ceremony, including Kimberly Williams, Terrence Braxton, Wally Hansen and Chief Tomman. The city will proceed with a search for a permanent police chief while Weaver leads the department on an interim basis.