New Police Chief Appointed In Cherry Hill

CHERRY HILL, NJ — The Cherry Hill Police Department will have a new top cop.

Cpt. John Ostermueller has been selected as Cherry Hill's next police chief, effective New Year's Day. Cherry Hill Township Council confirmed his appointment at Monday's meeting.

Ostermueller will succeed Chief Robert Kempf, who is retiring Tuesday after 26 years with the police department.

Ostermueller joined the CHPD as a patrol officer in 2003, rising through the department's ranks. He most recently served as the agency's chief administrative officer.

He is skilled in community relations, officer development, strategic planning and administrative operations, according to local officials.

"Captain John Ostermueller has the experience and vision to lead the Cherry Hill Police Department into the future," Mayor David Fleisher said in a statement. "He shares my commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safe, and operating with efficiency, professionalism and accountability."

As chief, Ostermueller will lead a department of more than 175 full- and part-time employees.

Tina Truitt-O'Neal, president of the Cherry Hill African American Civic Association, said Ostermueller has a "deep understanding and commitment" to the township's diverse community.

"Captain Ostermueller has consistently demonstrated professionalism, a proactive approach to problem solving and outstanding communication skills, as he collaborated with our association on community events or items of concern over the years," Truitt-O'Neal said.

Kempf became a Cherry Hill officer in 1998 and became police chief in early 2022. His upcoming retirement was announced in October.