Nick Obligacion – a 20-year veteran of the Manteca Police Department – has been selected to serve as the city’s next police chief.

“I want to build a better bond between the department and the community,” Obligacion said.

Obligacion will be sworn in and receive his badge in ceremonies planned for early February. At the same time a badge ceremony will be held for five members of the Manteca Police Department who had previously been laid off and are now being rehired to fill vacancies created by retirements.

Obligacion inherits a department that’s sworn officer ranks were reduced from 67 to 55 positions 26 months ago and was able to still aggressively work to reduce most categories of crime in Manteca.

“We have very good officers,” Obligacion said of the force.

Obligacion currently serves as patrol division lieutenant.

City Manager Karen McLaughlin made the appointment Thursday. She noted the conditional offer of employment which requires a routine psyche exam becomes effective Feb. 1. Until then, Captain John Orcutt will continue to serve as interim police chief.

McLaughlin’s appointment is final. It does not require City Council confirmation. He was selected from three finalists. All of them are members of the department’s command structure.

“Nick is well respected within his department, and throughout the community,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin credited Obligaicion with providing assistance and leadership in recent years as the department - and the city as a whole - underwent downsizing and modified tasks of employees in response to economic woes triggered by the recession and foreclosure meltdown.

She added that the lieutenant’s “vast experience within the department and his recognized leadership skills” helped earn him the appointment.

Obligacion has served as a police officer, K-9 officer, motor officer, motor sergeant, SWAT team member, SWAT team leader, tactical commander, and sergeant. He came to Manteca from Monterrey County where he served as a deputy sheriff.

Obligacion earned his bachelor of science degree in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute and University. He earned his certificate in contemporary management for police administration from San Jose State University.

Obligacion and his wife, Sallie, have two grown daughters.

“I’m appreciative of the support I’ve gotten from within the department, the city and the community,” Obligacion said.

Obligacion replaces Dave Bricker who retired in November.