He was the Cumberland City police chief, but the city demoted him to an officer. Now that he has left the department completely, Derrick Akal finds himself in a new position where he will be keeping a close eye on hundreds of Eastern Kentucky students.

After what he describes as some difficult times, Derrick Akal says he's excited about a new opportunity. He was sworn in Wednesday as a Harlan County Sheriff's deputy. He will be on duty at the new Harlan County High School where about 1,300 students from three consolidated high schools will start school next month.

"I think people are anticipating a lot of tension, a lot of problems but nowadays through the internet, cell phones, most of these kids still communicate so I think the transition will be a lot easier than people would think," Akal said.

But if problems to come up, Akal's experience over the years coaching boys basketball will come in handy.

"Two things, he understands the law and he understands students, communicates well with them and I think that's gonna be a big plus," said Harlan County School Superintendent Tim Saylor.

Harlan County Sheriff Marvin Lipfird says Cumberland Police Officer Dale Halcomb and Bell County Deputy Miron Southerland will also be joining the department and joining Akal at the new high school. All three will work to keep illegal activity out so students can focus on learning.

Akal starts with the Harlan County Sheriff's Department Monday.

The first day for students at the new Harlan County High School is just about a month away on August 11th.