GULFPORT — Deputy Police Chief Alfred Sexton announced his retirement today after more than two decades of dedicated service to the Gulfport Police Department.

The 42-year-old law enforcement veteran has accepted a job as director of security for the IP casino in Biloxi. Sexton plans to continue helping with the city’s youth programs and he will remain available as a reserve officer.

“Alfred is a dedicated police officer and a very close friend and he will be deeply missed,” said Police Chief Alan Weatherford, who joined the force around the same time as Sexton.

“I have spent more than half my life in this department and I have enjoyed every minute of it,” Sexton said. “I will certainly miss the day-to-day interaction with the men and women of the Gulfport Police Department, but I’ve reach a point in my life where I am able to retire and pursue a great opportunity in the private sector.”

Weatherford said he plans to officially announced Leonard Papania, commander of operations, as the department’s new deputy chief at the next City Council meeting July 7.

“I am very excited for Alfred and I know this is an opportunity that he couldn’t pass up,” said Mayor George Schloegel, who will officially take office on July 6. “I am also happy to know that Alfred plans to stay on with our volunteer program and continue his work with our city’s youngsters.”