WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate has confirmed the nomination of David Viles of Oakland to serve as U.S. marshal for Maine.

The Senate unanimously cleared the nomination Feb. 8, just a day after Judiciary Committee action. At Sen. Olympia Snowe’s recommendation, President Bush nominated Viles for U.S. marshal on Dec. 14. Senate confirmation clears the nomination for the president’s signature.

“This prompt Senate action sets the stage for a new U.S. marshal for Maine,” Snowe said in announcing the confirmation. “With its wide-ranging responsibilities overseeing security at federal courts and buildings throughout the state, and managing federal pursuit of fugitives, the U.S. marshal position is essential at any time – and particularly now, given heightened concerns about the security of our homeland.”

Viles retired as a lieutenant colonel from the Maine State Police in 1999 after more than 20 years of service. At the time of his retirement, he had served two years as deputy chief of the Maine State Police. He previously served six years as director of the internal affairs division, three years as supervisor of executive protection, and two years as field supervisor. Before becoming a state trooper, Viles served as both a local police officer and a deputy sheriff in Somerset County. He is a graduate of the Maine State Police Academy and oversees security for Bangor-based Pottle’s Transportation.

The Marshal Service is responsible for providing support and protection for federal courts, including security for federal judicial facilities, judges and magistrates; apprehending most federal fugitives; operating the federal witness security program; maintaining custody of and transporting federal prisoners; executing court orders and arrest warrants; managing and selling seized property forfeited to the government; and responding to emergency circumstances such as civil disturbances, terrorist incidents, and other crisis situations.