VIDALIA — Arthur Lewis has been named the acting Vidalia Police Chief effective immediately.

Lewis was most recently serving as assistant police chief.

Jim Boren was promoted to the position of acting assistant police chief.

The mayor and board of aldermen made the promotions official Monday night following the resignation of Ronnie G. “Tapper” Hendricks. Hendricks was charged with making false statements to federal investigators Monday.

Mayor Hyram Copeland said he plans to meet with the entire staff of the police department Tuesday to offer support and assurance.

“We also want to assure the people of Vidalia that safety is primary to us,” Copeland said.