Jerry Hafen named Public Safety director

CARSON CITY -- Gov. Jim Gibbons announced Thursday that lifelong Clark County resident Jerry Hafen has been appointed director of the Department of Public Safety.

Hafen, deputy chief of the Investigation Division for the department, replaces Phil Galeoto, who stepped down after 14 months on the job.

Hafen said his priorities will be disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into Nevada communities and preparing to respond appropriately to homeland security and emergency management issues.

Hafen will earn about $122,000 a year in his new position.

He began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer in 1975. Hafen also has served as an investigator with the State Taxicab Authority and as a state gaming enforcement agent, in addition to other positions.

Since 2003, he has supervised and administered operations for the Investigation Division's statewide narcotics and major crimes units.