Pequots name Dittman as new interim police chief

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (AP) — The tribe that owns and operates Foxwoods Resort Casino has named a former New London police captain as its new interim police chief.

The Mashantucket Pequot tribe announced William Dittman's appointment on Thursday. Dittman is retired from the New London department and most recently has worked for the Chief State's Attorney's office.

The eastern Connecticut tribe has been pressing the state to allow its police department to replace state troopers inside the casino to reduce the millions of dollars it has to reimburse the state each year for security. State officials say tribal police will need to obtain certifications that are lacking and demonstrate proficiency to the state before an agreement can be finalized.

The previous chief, Daniel Collins, resigned in May amid criticism that the force was being mismanaged.