The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office announced Wednesday the landmark promotion of five captains. Among the promoted is Michael Bastone, who has become the first Latino captain in the 300-year history of the office.

"This promotion is simply in line with my commitment to make this office not only diverse, but to promote talent where it’s deserved," Sheriff Jewell Williams said in a statement.

Bastone has been with the sheriff’s office for 25 years, where he worked his way up from a deputy officer. He scored the second highest grade among those who took the captain’s placement test.

“I am very excited, honored, and humbled to be the first Latino Captain,” Bastone said. “This is also something for other’s to see, and look forward to meeting the challenge and the rewards of hard work, dedication and a sheriff who understands the importance of diversity.”

Few Latinos make it to the upper reaches of Philadelphia law enforcement. Currently, the Sheriff’s office employs about 300 people: 55 percent of whom are Black, 33 percent white, 11 percent Latino, and less than 1 percent Asian.

The other newly promoted captains are Vernon Muse, Gregory Mullelly, Monte Guess and Paris Washington.