City officials have announced the interim chief for the Grand Junction Police Department.

Lakewood Police Division Chief John Camper has just been announced as Interim Police Chief for the City of Grand Junction.

Camper will start Aug. 31 and hold the position for four to six months until a permanent chief can be found. He told reporters today via conference call he does not plan to apply for the GJPD Chief position and will return to the Lakewood department when a replacement has been found.

Former Grand Junction Police Department Chief Bill Gardner told 11 News at a news conference today that he has a long-standing relationship with the Lakewood Police Department and that Camper has the same values and principals he holds. Gardner sought Camper out to fill the Interim position.

City officials say Camper will be reimbursed for housing and business vehicle expenses during his time with the GJPD. The City of Lakewood will continue to pay his salary. Camper’s primary responsibilities will be to sustain the Department through the interim period instead of making operational changes.

Camper is a graduate of Central High School, holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business Administration, and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police.

He has 28 years of experience in law enforcement, joining the Lakewood Police Department in 1981. In addition work as a patrol officer, Camper has served as Public Information Officer, Crime Prevention Agent, and Crimes Against Children Detective.

11 News Reporter Tim Ciesco will have more on the Interim Chief tonight on 11 News at 5:30 p.m.