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Va. city names first black chief in 260-year history

Associated Press

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A Washington suburb is naming the first black police chief in its 260-year history to replace a chief who resigned after he was charged with drunken driving.

City spokesman Tony Castrilli said Tuesday that Alexandria, Va., officials are giving the job to Earl L. Cook, who has served as acting police chief since his predecessor was charged with DUI. Cook joined the department in 1979, and has also served as executive deputy chief.

Cook succeeds David Baker, who resigned as chief in July, days after he was charged with drunken driving. Baker later pleaded guilty to the charge.

Before becoming a police officer, Cook was a member of the T.C. Williams High School state champion football team in Alexandria that was depicted in the 2000 movie, “Remember the Titans.”