Hillsborough names Davis Trimmer interim police chief

A Hillsborough police commander has been named interim department chief, according to a news release from the department.

Clarence Birkhead, Hillsborough police chief for nearly five years, will step down April 2 to focus on his campaign for Orange County sheriff against incumbent Lindy Pendergrass.

Lt. Davis Trimmer, 49, who commands the Criminal Investigations Division, will take his place.

“Naturally, I am sorry to see Chief Birkhead go and I wish him the best in his campaign for sheriff,” he said in a statement. “Working for him has been a tremendous learning experience for me.”

It usually takes about six months to locate a new police chief — a process that includes applications, interviews and background checks.