An interim chief of police for the State Center Community College District was announced Tuesday in an email to faculty and staff.

Dave Paris takes over the position of interim chief of police for the district, Christine Miktarian, associate vice chancellor of business and operations, said.

Paris is a 37-year veteran in law enforcement. He spent 30 years as a captain and commander with the California Highway Patrol, before retiring 18 months ago, Miktarian said.

In the fall of 2015, the former chief of police, Bruce Hartman stepped down for medical reasons, according to the district. Lt. Richard Gaines has filled the position since.