Post Falls has new police captain

Scot Haug, Post Falls’ newly appointed police captain, says he’s excited about his promotion and is looking forward to working with the entire police force.

“We have a great team of people, and I’m anticipating my transition is going to be easier because of this great team,” he said.

Haug, who has been with the department for more than 20 years, was promoted from lieutenant last Thursday.

In his new position, Haug will be the department’s second-in-command, reporting directly to Police Chief Cliff Hayes. Haug will oversee the police force on a daily basis, guiding its patrol, investigations, communications and computer services divisions. Haug has proved to be an “excellent leader” whose management and technology skills make him a natural for the added responsibilities, Hayes said.

Haug recently was instrumental in adopting a wireless computer network to put laptops in patrol cars.

Now, Post Falls police officers can securely run criminal background checks, file investigative reports and more – all in their patrol cars.

Haug began his career in 1987, climbing the ladder from animal patrol officer to lieutenant.

He will receive a raise of approximately 5 percent, bringing his annual salary to $78,000.

Hayes said Haug will bring the department’s high-level staff, who always are on call, to four.

The department has been without a captain since the 2003 retirement of Jim Simmerman.