Stafford Police Chief Retires After 36 Years

STAFFORD, NJ — As of Feb. 29, Police Chief Thomas Dellane has retired, capping off a career of 36 years of service to Stafford Township.

Dellane, chief since 2016 and a member of the force since 1987, was honored by Mayor Rob Henken and the Township Council for his decades of dedicated work.

"Throughout his career, and specifically during his tenure as Chief of Police, Chief Thomas Dellane has consistently implemented innovative and effective Departmental policies, while working together with other Township Departments as well as outside agencies, to ensure the safety of the Township and its residents," township officials shared in a social media post.

As chief, Dellane had several accomplishments, including the implementation of the mental health program On P.O.I.N.T. and achieving New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police (NJASCOP) accreditation - both of which he told Patch were his goals when he first started the job.

Dellane also served as NJASCOP president during his time as chief.

Township officials shared their well-wishes for Dellane.

"Chief Thomas Dellane's dedication to the Stafford Township Police Department and the residents of the Township of Stafford is unparalleled, and his desire to constantly improve the services his department provides will be incredibly missed by all Township employees and community members alike," officials said.