POULSBO — The Poulsbo Police Department has named its first ever deputy chief, said department Chief Dennis Swiney.

Shawn Delaney, currently a lieutenant with the Visalia Police Department in California, was chosen from 17 candidates. A conditional offer of employment has been extended; the results of a background check are still pending, according to a department memo. Swiney was also a member of Visalia’s force before heading up Poulsbo’s department in November 2007.

Delaney began his law enforcement career in 1984. He previously earned a bachelor’s of science degree in business administration with an emphasis in industrial relations and personnel management. He has since served in many capacities, including as a burglary team investigator, patrol division and basic car team agent, investigator in a community service officers unit, administrative sergeant and reserve and patrol division sergeant.

The position of deputy chief is a newly formed one for the department. According to the memo, a sergeant and police officer position are also currently vacant. Two police clerks have recently joined the team.