Paul F. Evans, Boston’s former top cop, to run security operation at Suffolk Downs as racetrack bids for resort casino license

By John R. Ellement, Globe Staff

The owners of the Suffolk Downs track have hired former Boston police commissioner Paul F. Evans to run their security operations as they race to land a state license to operate a resort-style casino on their East Boston property.

Evans was the city’s top cop from 1994 to 2003 during which Boston experienced a dramatic drop in gang-related violence, especially homicides, a period of peace that came to be known as the “Boston Miracle.’’

After Evans retired from the department, the South Boston native was hired by the British government to inject some of the lessons of Boston into the English law enforcement community. He left his job with the British Home Office in 2007.

Evans has since worked as a security consultant and was hired in 2009 by the track’s owners to conduct an “integrity, security, and compliance” examination of Ceasars’ Entertainment, the company the track has partnered with to run the potential casino operation, the track said in a statement today.

Evans will now become a full-time employee with the title of executive vice president, security and compliance.

“Paul brings impeccable credentials, a substantial law enforcement background, and a history of forging strong community involvement as we work to ensure that our proposal for a world-class gaming and entertainment facility meets the highest standards for public safety, security, compliance and integrity,” Richard Fields, principal owner of Suffolk Downs, said in a statement.

The state law legalizing casino gambling, which Governor Deval Patrick signed in November, authorizes up to three resort casinos, one each in Western Massachusetts, Greater Boston/Worcester, and the southeast.