The city of Paterson named Bert Ribeiro as its new police chief. He is the first Latino police chief in Paterson’s history.

Ribeiro was sworn in Friday morning at International High School.

He was born and raised in Paterson after his parents emigrated from Brazil. He joined the police force in 1996. Ribeiro rose through the ranks and was named acting police chief several months ago.

He says that he will demand transparency and respect on the police force.

"I want to start by working to build trust between the community and the police department. We cannot make this city safer on our own. We need to work together with the community for that common goal,” he said.

Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh says that Riberio’s hiring not only makes history in Paterson, but also shows progress.