Former Middletown Police Chief Joseph McCarthy Dies At 92

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — It is with deep sadness that the Middletown Township Police Department regrets to announce the passing of retired Chief of Police Joseph M. McCarthy (July 28, 1925 – August 28, 2017).

Chief McCarthy was born in Jersey City and moved to Middletown at an early age and graduated from the Middletown School system in 1943. He served in the United States Army during World War II in Army Intelligence, and was honorably discharged in 1946. He joined the Middletown Township Police Department in 1954 and quickly rose through the ranks, being promoted to Detective Sergeant in 1957, Lieutenant in 1959, Captain of Detectives in 1965 and was promoted to the rank of Chief of Police in 1967 and served in that position until his retirement in 1990.

Chief McCarthy is seen above in this Patch file photo at a 2013 Middletown Helps Its Own event.

Chief McCarthy was a legendary figure in the law enforcement profession, and a leading member in the community. He dedicated his life to public service and worked tirelessly on behalf of the community he loved so dearly. He was a transformational leader and a prolific visionary who modernized the police department and built it into a highly respected professional agency. He championed many charitable causes and was a founding member of the Port Monmouth First Aid Squad, a member of the Port Monmouth Fire Co., The Middletown Historical society, The Boys Club, Middletown Helps Its Own, and many other civic organizations.

During his illustrious career Chief McCarthy received numerous awards and commendations for his service, some of which include the “Valor Award," the “J. Edgar Hoover Gold Medal Citation," “Outstanding Public Servant," “Man of the Year," “Citizen of the Year” and he was recognized by The President of the United States for his work in support of POWs.

Chief McCarthy was a truly remarkable individual and one of the most influential people of his time. He leaves behind an amazing legacy of achievements and good will, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, 115 Tindall Road, Middletown. True to the Chief’s nature, the family is asking those who knew him to consider a contribution in Joseph's name to the Wounded Warriors Project, 4899 Belford Rd, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.