Responsibilities
The Chief of Police is the executive officer of the Police Department responsible for the supervision and administration of the Department. His duties and responsibilities are governed by State Statute, Township Ordinances, and the Department's rules and regulations. Helping the public to understand the roles and responsibilities of the Police Department is an important function of the Chief. Communications and community relations are key elements in the job performed by the Chief.
Apprehending criminals and enforcing laws are not the only duties of the Department. The Police Department sponsors numerous education and orientation sessions dealing with alcohol and drug abuse, neighborhood watches, and pedestrian and traffic safety.
History
After earning a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Western New England University, Michael attended the Morris County Public Safety Academy. In November 2000, he was hired by the Hanover Township Police Department. Michael later became a Field Training Officer and for several months was assigned as a Task Force Officer at the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. In 2005, Michael was deployed to Louisiana to assist with emergency operations following Hurricane Katrina. Michael was promoted to Sergeant in 2012 and in 2013 completed the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Academy. Over the next several years he earned a Master's of Science degree in Homeland Security from Fairleigh Dickinson University. In 2016, Michael was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and subsequently earned the F.B.I. Law Enforcement Executive Development Association Trilogy Award. He also serves as a Deputy Coordinator for the Township's Office of Emergency Management.