Moton sworn in as Toledo's police chief; 2 deputies promoted

New Mayor D. Michael Collins, left, shakes hands with Toledo's new Chief William Moton, right, before walking into Moton's promotion ceremony.

The Blade/Amy E. Voigt
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Lt. William Moton takes the oath from Adam Loux, law director, right, to become chief of the Toledo Police Department during a promotion ceremony in City Council Chambers. Mayor Collins stands nearby.

Toledo has a new police chief.

Just after 9 a.m. today, William Moton was sworn in as the Toledo Police Department's highest-ranking officer, succeeding Derrick Diggs.

"It's an honor and a privilege to accept this great responsibility," Chief Moton, 68, said during the swearing-in ceremony, held in city council chambers.

Toledo Police Chief William Moton says a few words after being sworn in during a promotion ceremony in City Council Chambers today.

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During his brief remarks — he's known as a person of few words — the new chief became emotional when talking about realizing his childhood dream of becoming a police officer decades ago.

"It was in Toledo that my childhood dream came true to become a police officer and to be given this opportunity to lead one of the best police departments in the nation, I must say I am honored," the former Marine said.

Also moving up the ranks today were George Kral and James O'Bryant, who were promoted to deputy chief from captain.

Deputy Chief Kral, 47, was appointed to the department in 1990. He will serve as assistant chief.

Deputy Chief O'Bryant, 51, was hired in 1985.