West Deptford’s new police lieutenant is no stranger to the department—any part of it, actually.

Sean McKenna, who’s worked in virtually every role the police department has to offer, from patrol to K-9 to narcotics to the detective’s unit, was sworn in as the new lieutenant Thursday night, after being chosen from among three candidates for the position, which was vacated when Samuel DiSimone was promoted to deputy chief in March.

For McKenna, a lifelong West Deptford resident, it’s a chance to take on additional responsibility in protecting his hometown—something he’s grown used to as he’s ascended the ranks over more than a decade of service.

“I know the community well—I know the issues in our community,” he said. “I'm just excited to start the new phase.”

While his new role as lieutenant hadn’t been completely defined yet, McKenna said it’ll be important for him to help provide direction for the ranks.

“I think I can provide the leadership to the younger guys,” he said.

One of McKenna’s strengths is his ability to motivate others within the department, Chief Craig Mangano said.

“He has a lot of leadership attributes that will have a positive influence on the rest of the department,” Mangano said. “He's a tremendous asset to the township and the police department.”