Donald Butterworth spent most of last week representing the Orangetown Police Department in Orangetowns Office of Emergency Management.
"Any problem that came up, Don was right on top of it," Orangetown Police Chief Kevin Nulty said.
That was part of Butterworth's role as the department's administrative lieutenant, which helped prepare him for his new job.
At a meeting Nov. 1, the town board voted to approve Nulty's suggestion that they create a second captain's position in the Orangetown Police Department and elevate Butterworth to fill it.
"He has gone above and beyond and been a true role model in our community," Orangetown Supervisor Andy Stewart said.
"I've worked with Don now for 22 years," Nulty said. "What a professional he is and what a great person to work with. I look forward to his leadership in the police department in the future. I thank the town board for creating this position. It will really help us through challenging times. This is a great move for Orangetown. Don, on behalf of myself and Captain Zimmerman, well deserved. Congratulations."
Butterworth came to the Orangetown Police Department in 1990 after two years with the NYPD's 47th Precinct. He was promoted to sergeant in 1997, lieutenant in 2004 and administrative lieutenant in 2006.
The board voted 4-1 in favor of the creation of the new position, with Councilman Tom Diviny in opposition. The vote to promote Butterworth was 4-0 with Diviny abstaining because he had voted against adding a second captain.
"A number of the candidates I spoke with said the position was not necessary," Diviny said.
