ALBANY, N.Y. -- After two days on the job, Chief Eric Hawkins has formally been sworn in as Albany's next police chief.

Mayor Sheehan and Chief Hawkins are already presenting a united front. During Friday's ceremony, both did not shy away from the fact that it’s been a difficult summer in Albany and the police department needs to continue working with the community. 

Hawkins says he is looking forward to building on what already is being done and has been watching the department from afar. He's seen similarities between Albany and his former department in Michigan.

"I've seen change, positive change, occur. I've lived it. I've experienced it. I’ve seen a community much like Albany that had quality of life issues, that had crime issues, and I saw what strategies worked," says Hawkins.

Hawkins has spent the last few weeks speaking to community members, saying he understands concerns and calls for more unity.