Newly appointed Columbus Police Chief Chris Beddingfield was sworn into office Thursday, Jan. 20 during the Columbus Town Council meeting. Beddingfield replaces former chief Butch Kennedy, who resigned at the end of December 2010. Beddingfield served as assistant police chief prior to being named chief. Columbus Mayor Eric McIntyre (left) administered the oath of office to Beddingfield with help from Beddingfield’s wife, Christy. About 20 of Beddingfield’s  friends, family members and co-workers attended the ceremony. (photo by Leah Justice)