NORTH PROVIDENCE - David Drezek, newly elected as president of the Fraternal Order of Police, 13, representing the town's officers issued a statement last week addressing the changes that the department is undergoing.

He wrote to his fellow officers, "We all need to look in the mirror and reflect on the future of the department."

North Providence is currently searching for a new police chief. The department found itself in the news earlier this year when an officer was convicted on burglary charges.

Former Chief Col. Ernest Spaziano retired days after the conviction of the officer.

State Police Lt. David Palmer was appointed interim chief and subsequently completed an evaluation of personnel, operations and policy of the 70-member department at the request of Mayor Charles Lombardi.

Palmer is expected to remain in charge of the department until a new chief is appointed.

"We are in a crossroad for the North Providence Police Department," Drezek wrote. "Like you, I am waiting patiently for a permanent leader to lead the men and women of the North Providence Department. I look forward to working with Acting Chief Palmer or whoever is selected for the post of colonel.

"I also look forward to having a respectful cordial relationship with Mayor Lombardi. The union and the mayor's office need to work together. I would like nothing better than a strong commitment in which mutual respect comes from both sides."

Drezek directly addressed the recent conviction of a police officer.

"I want to make it clear to all members of the F.O.P., 13, that the union is not here to protect officers who violate the Rhode Island criminal codes or the NPPD rules and regulations. This behavior will be frowned upon and the E-Board will review all cases. The union is here to protect you from political interference."