Gov. Pillen announces new superintendent of Nebraska State Patrol

LINCOLN Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen announced a new leader of the Nebraska State Patrol on Thursday.

Kearney Police Chief Bryan Waugh will become the 19th superintendent of the patrol, bringing over 30 years of law enforcement experience.

Waugh spent the last six years as the police chief in Kearney.

Pillen described him as innovative, collaborative and having a public servant’s heart.

As chief, Waugh led a growing department, managed a $13 million budget and got his department accredited.

He also launched a mental health co-responder program and a license plate reading system that sparked a statewide effort.

“I am confident we’ve chosen the right person to lead the Patrol and build on its 88-year-old legacy,” Pillen said in a press release.

According to Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly, there were four different applicants, but he was most impressed with Waugh and his experience with federal, state and local government.

Col. John Bolduc, the current superintendent, will retire Sunday.

Waugh will assume his duties June 2, and until then, Pillen has appointed Lt. Col. Jeff Roby to serve as interim superintendent.

Waugh will oversee 700 public servants, including 400 sworn officers.