Donna Higbee Sworn in as Galloway Police Chief

Donna Higbee is officially the new chief of police in Galloway Township.

Higbee had been serving as Acting Chief since Pat Moran retired on June 1 following 25 years of law enforcement service. Higbee was sworn in as Chief on Wednesday.

A ceremonial swearing-in will take place during the Galloway Council meeting on July 14, 6:30 p.m.

“Chief Higbee is a great asset to the Galloway Police Department,” Mayor Don Purdy said. “She brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to the Galloway Community. Chief Higbee’s hands on approach will continue and expand the excellence of policing fostered by Chief Moran. I am confident that Chief Higbee’s quality of leadership and dedication to the Galloway Police Department and to the Township of Galloway will enhance the connection between the Police and the Community.”

Higbee was born and raised in Galloway Township, attended Galloway Township Public Schools, graduated from Absegami High School in 1994, and earned a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Stockton University in 1998. She also holds a Master of Arts in Human Resources Training, Development and Management from Seton Hall University, as well as a Master of Arts Certificate in Leadership, Management and Policy.

Higbee was hired by the Galloway Township Police Department in April of 2002, after previously serving with the City of Wildwood and the Township of Hamilton.

In Hamilton Township, she served as a patrol officer for three years before returning to her hometown of Galloway Township as a patrol officer to follow in her father’s footsteps.

John Higbee retired after 27 years of service to the Township as the most highly decorated officer in the department’s history.

Donna Higbee has served in every Departmental rank and division - from Patrol Officer through Lieutenant – over the past 13 years.

During her tenure with Galloway Township, she’s been a Field Training Officer, a Crisis/Hostage Negotiator, a bicycle patrol Instructor and served on the Department’s Honor Guard Unit as the Director.

Higbee is active in the Galloway Community, participating in Veteran’s events, Beacon Church’s Thanksgiving Food Drive, Girl Scouts of America, and the Christmas Family Program through the Police Department.

She attributes her success to her parents, John and Gina Higbee, who raised her to work hard, get the best education that you can, stand up for what is right, take pride in the flag and your duty to help those who are less fortunate and always treat people with respect.

The attached images were provided by the Galloway Police Department.