Sgt. Nicholas Curelli rose through the ranks of the Oak Bluffs police department Tuesday when he was appointed acting lieutenant by the select board. Mr. Curelli came highly recommended by police chief Erik Blake, who praised his work with the department.

“Sergeant Curelli deserves a promotion,” Mr. Blake said. “He deserves an opportunity to sit in this role.”

The chief said Mr. Curelli has been taking on extra work since the departure of Lieut. Timothy Williamson, and has handled those responsibilities well.

“He’s doing the work of a few people and I appreciate it,” Mr. Blake said. “I know for a fact that the men and women who work with us are in support of this.”

After getting approval from the board, Mr. Curelli thanked the chief and board members for the opportunity.