Green Cove Springs has promoted Commander John Guzman to replace former Police Chief Derek Asdot, who died of COVID-19 complications in late September.
Guzman has served as acting chief since Asdot's death. City Manager Steve Kennedy said Guzman has "done a great job" keeping the department focused on Asdot's priorities.
"The department staff have been supportive of Commander Guzman, especially over the last four months, and will continue to support him as chief of police,” Kennedy said in a news release.
Guzman started his career in law enforcement with the Green Cove department in 2003 as a patrol officer, field training officer, street crimes officer and instructor. He was assigned as a detective with the countywide drug/vice task force in 2010 and was promoted to sergeant in 2017 and then lieutenant in 2018.
Before his appointment as acting chief, Guzman worked as the department’s Administration Division commander overseeing criminal investigations, communications, accreditation and training, school resource officers, records and evidence sections of the police department.
He has received the Medal of Valor, Chief’s Achievement Award, Police Commendation Award, Educations Achievement Award, Community Service Award and a Letter of Commendation from the Clay County sheriff in 2012.
Guzman holds a bachelor's degree from Vincennes University and is working on a master's degree in management at the University of Florida.