A former Los Angeles Police Department deputy chief was chosen Thursday to serve as interim chief of the embattled Burbank Police Department.Scott LaChasse will take over as interim chief Jan. 7, replacing Chief Tim Stehr, who is expected to retire at the end of the year.

"I look forward to creating an open dialogue with all members of the department, the community and city family," LaChasse said. "The department is transitioning from a difficult period and there are still tough days ahead but I believe the Burbank Police Department will emerge stronger and well-prepared for the future."

The Burbank Police Department is the focus of three investigations, including one by the FBI, into allegations of misconduct by officers. The department came under further fire with the suicide of Sgt. Neil Thomas Gunn, 50, who was one of the people named in the FBI's probe.

Gunn's widow, Tina Gunn, told the Los Angeles Times that the department's leaders and union failed to support him against use-of-force allegations, effectively ruining his career and leaving him "brokenhearted."

In announcing his retirement in November, Stehr acknowledged that the department was "facing challenging times."

"The healing process will be a long one but I have tremendous confidence in the brave men and women of our department and the citizens of this community. As I prepare to retire, I wish to thank all those who made the department's success possible."

LaChasse served with the LAPD from 1970 to 2002, rising to the rank of deputy chief. He has been more recently serving as vice president of security and emergency services at Paramount Pictures.

"Scott enjoyed a tremendous career with LAPD," said Burbank City Manager Mike Flad. "His track record of managing complex issues and effective leadership is exactly the fit we were looking for."

Flad said LaChasse will remain interim chief until mid-2010, when a permanent chief is expected to be hired.