THIBODAUX, La. (AP) – Thibodaux police’s special operations commander has been named interim head of the department following the police chief’s announcement last week that he is retiring.

Mayor Tommy Eschete says Capt. Kyle Cressione will take over after Chief Scott Silverii leaves office Aug. 28. No permanent successor has been named.

Cressione, who has been with the department for more than 19 years, said he does not plan to apply for the chief’s position because it could interfere with his retirement plans. The job is not protected under civil service.

The captain served as interim chief when Eschete first took office, but he said he was still surprised to get the honor again.Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.