New Mexico State Police Chief Pete Kassetas has been confirmed by the Senate.
The Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to confirm the long-time officer as the state's 21st police chief.
The Senate Rules Committee voted earlier to send his appointment to the full Senate after a short hearing.
A number of law enforcement officers and deputies from around the state came out to support Kassetas and said they liked what they've seen since he was appointed in August by Gov. Susana Martinez.
Kassetas faced no opposition and senators did not question the chief over recent shootings by state police officers that have drawn criticism from some advocates.
The two-decade veteran of the State Police replaced Chief Robert Shilling, who retired.
As chief, Kassetas will be paid around $103,000 a year.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.