PORTLAND — Former University of Maine Public Safety Director Noel March has been confirmed as U.S. Marshal for Maine.

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine says the U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed March today. March, a graduate of the FBI National Academy, has been UMaine police chief for the past eight years.

President Barack Obama nominated March to succeed the current marshal, David Viles. Collins, a Maine Republican, calls March an outstanding choice for the post.

The U.S. Marshals Service is the enforcement arm of the federal courts. Its duties include apprehending fugitives, transporting criminals and seizing property acquired by criminals through illegal activity.