David B. Mitchell was sworn in as the new Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security on Wednesday, immediately following his confirmation by the state Senate.

Priorly, Mitchell, 53, served as superintendent of the Maryland State Police, the seventh largest state law enforcement agency in the country, with more than 2,500 employees. In that position, he was the primary law enforcement advisor to then-Gov. Parris Glendenning and a member of the governor's cabinet.

"David's thorough experience in law enforcement and his reputation for fairness in leading the Maryland State Police for eight years made him an ideal choice for this important position," Gov. Minner said.

After September 11, 2001, Mitchell chaired the Governor's Homeland Security Work Group, creating legislation and revising procedures and plans to better prepare and protect Maryland. He created the "Cease Fire" initiative, aimed at reducing gun crime in Maryland. Mitchell established the first statewide domestic violence and intervention and investigation team. He also implemented new initiatives in computer crimes, labor relations, DNA forensic investigations and community policing.

Before his time as superintendent, Mitchell spent 24 years with the Prince George's County Police Department in Maryland, serving as chief of that department from 1990 to 1995.

Mitchell holds a bachelor's degree in science, technology and management, a master's degree in public policy and financial management as well as a law degree, all from the University of Maryland.

He begins his new position immediately.