AUSTIN, Texas (AP) _ Col. Lamar Beckworth is the new interim director of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The Texas Public Safety Commission selected the 31-year agency veteran to serve until a permanent director is named. Beckworth replaces Col. Stanley E. Clark, who resigned Monday amid allegations of sexual harassment.
Beckworth is the first African-American to lead the DPS and his appointment is effective immediately. The new job carries a promotion in rank from lieutenant colonel.
Beckworth said he would not disappoint the commission.
Public Safety Commission Chairman Allan B. Polunsky said in a news release that Beckworth would provide the leadership needed through the end of the legislative session.
Beckworth began his DPS career as a driver license trooper in Irving. He served as a Highway Patrol trooper in Kilgore for five years. His career also took him to Brownfield, Garland and Lubbock, where he served nine years as the regional commander.
He was assistant chief of the Highway Patrol for six years and was named lieutenant colonel and interim assistant director of the DPS in September.