New Jersey State Police Superintendent to Retire, Callahan Steps Down

Governor Phil Murphy announced on December 8 that Colonel Patrick J. Callahan will retire as superintendent of the New Jersey State Police effective December 31, ending a 31 year tenure with the division. Callahan’s departure follows a career that stretched from his enlistment in April 1995 as a member of the 115th Trooper Class to his years leading operations at the highest levels of the agency.

In a statement accompanying the announcement Governor Murphy praised Callahan’s service, saying "Colonel Callahan embodies the very essence of a career public servant. For more than three decades, he served the people of New Jersey with an unwavering commitment to the core values of the State Police: Honor, Duty, and Fidelity. He has been an indispensable member of my Cabinet, guiding our work through some of the most challenging moments in our state’s history – from the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy to the unprecedented demands of the COVID-19 pandemic. Above all, he has been a trusted colleague and a dear friend. I wish him nothing but the very best as he enters this next chapter of his life."

Callahan reflected on his career in his retirement statement, saying "I leave this role with deep pride in the work we have accomplished and with an unwavering respect for the men and women who serve our communities every day. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside individuals who embody our core values of honor, duty and fidelity. Together, we faced challenges, embraced innovation, strengthened partnerships, and remained committed to ensuring the safety and well being of the public we are sworn to protect. Transitions in leadership are part of public service, and I accept this change with gratitude for the many opportunities I have had to contribute to the sacred mission of the New Jersey State Police. I offer my full support to the incoming administration and to the dedicated personnel who will continue to carry our mission forward."

Callahan’s operational background included service as deputy superintendent of Operations where he supervised and directed the activities of 1,800 enlisted members, and his leadership during major emergencies such as Superstorm Sandy and the COVID 19 pandemic shaped statewide protocols for disaster response. For Cumberland County residents, who live in a coastal and agricultural region with distinct public safety needs, the transition underscores the importance of continuity in coordination between State Police, county emergency management, and local law enforcement agencies. Callahan thanked colleagues, community partners, and citizens for their support over three decades, and pledged support for the incoming leadership as state and local agencies prepare for the change at year end.