INDIANAPOLIS (AP): The former chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department will now head the Indiana Civil Rights Commission following an appointment by Gov. Mike Pence.

Rick Hite, a Gary native, will take office Monday. He replaces former commission Executive Director Jamal Smith, who recently resigned to lead athletics for the Indianapolis Public Schools.

Hite served as the IMPD chief under former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard. Hite also worked with the Baltimore City Police Department for 32 years.

The Civil Rights Commission investigates discrimination claims and enforces the state’s civil rights laws. It also advocates for civil rights education throughout the state.