BUTLER TWP — John Hays became police chief of his hometown of Butler Township on Monday night.

The township commissioners appointed Hays to lead the department he’s already held a badge with for more than three decades.

Hays’ wife, Susan, pinned on his new badge.

“I’m looking forward to this challenge,” said Hays, 58.

Born and raised in the township, Hays graduated from Butler High School in 1972. He went on to earn a bachelor of science degree in law enforcement and corrections from Penn State University in May 1976. Later that year, he graduated from the Penn State Police Academy.

Hays has spent his entire career working his way up the ranks of the same department.

He most recently was lieutenant, which is second in command, since 2006.