The Chester County Detectives Office has started off its New Year with a new leadership team as District Attorney Thomas Hogan announced on Tuesday that Lt. Kevin Dykes has been named as the new Chief of County Detectives

Sgt. Michael McGinnis has also been appointed Dykes’ second-in-command and promoted to the rank of lieutenant. These changes did not come as much of a surprise as they had been expected in law enforcement circles, writes Michael Rellahan for the Daily Local News.

“The Chester County District Attorney’s Office is fortunate to have strong leadership for our detectives,” said Hogan in the announcement of the changes. “Kevin Dykes and Mike McGinnis have proven themselves as investigators, supervisors, and team players. They are known and respected throughout Chester County law enforcement for their skill and integrity.”

The investigative arm of the county District Attorney’s Office also added a new detective earlier in the week to be in charge of the DA’s Child Abuse Unit. The new detective, Oscar Rosado, has passed the training to be a forensic investigator in child abuse cases and moves from his previous position as a detective in the Kennett Square Police Department.

“Detective Rosado is a key addition to the Chester County Detectives,” said Hogan. “He is an experienced and accomplished investigator, having handled major drug, violent crime and child abuse investigations. In addition, he is fluent in Spanish, an important tool in many investigations.”

Dykes takes over from former Chief, James Vito, who retired on December 31st after many years of successful public service, and will be only the fifth person appointed to the Chief of Detectives position since 1975.

“It is truly an honor and a privilege to be promoted to Chief of the Chester County Detectives,” said Dykes about his promotion. “I am grateful for this opportunity given to me by District Attorney Hogan to lead this outstanding group of individuals.”

The formal swearing in will take place today at 1 p.m. in Courtroom 2 of the Justice Center before Judge Anthony Sarcione.