Christler named Interim Police Chief
By John Zornow

Newark Mayor Peter Blandino announced Friday afternoon that longtime Newark resident, David L. Christler, has been appointed Interim Newark Chief of Police.

Christler, 60, retired from the New York State Police in December 2005, after 31 years of service. He was Major of Troop E, headquarters in Canandaigua, which encompasses 10 counties.

At the time of his retirement, he was Deputy Superintendent of the State Police in Albany.

He is a three year veteran of the U.S. Army and served in Viet Nam from 1969-1070, earning the Bronze Star for valor.

Christler, who is in private business in Plattsburgh, will serve as Interim Chief until March 2009, when the results of a civil service test are released.

Police investigator Gary Ver Straete was appointed Officer In Charge on April 28 by the village board, following the retirement of Chief Richard Bogan.

Christler was the recipient of several commendations including the United States Attorney General's Award for Outstanding Contributions to Community Partnerships for Public Safety, and three Superintendent's Commendations for undercover drug investigation, recruitment detail, and Worlds University Games.

He graduated from Monroe Community College in 1973 with an Associate degree in Police Science.

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