Lambertville Appoints First Chief Of Police In 30 Years

Officer-In-Charge Lt. Robert Brown has been promoted to the job of chief of police after nearly three decades with the department.

By Jeff Werner, Patch Staff

Apr 28, 2026 10:50 am EDT

Lt. Robert Brown is the city's new chief of police. (City of Lambertville)

LAMBERTVILLE, NJ — The City of Lambertville has its first chief of police in 30 years.

At a meeting on April 23, City Council voted to create the position of chief of police and to appoint city native, Police Lt. Robert Brown, to job. The city hasn't had a chief of police since 1996.

Lt. Brown has served as the Officer-in-Charge of the Lambertville Police Department since 2019, overseeing the city's policing efforts.

“It is with great pleasure I announce that Robert Brown was appointed to serve as the Chief of Police at the April 23 City Council meeting," Mayor Andrew Nowick posted on the city's Facebook page. "Chief Brown has faithfully served this community for more than three decades and the governing body is deeply grateful for his commitment to Lambertville. Please join me in congratulating Chief Brown."

Brown has served Lambertville for close to 30 years, rising up through the ranks to officer-in-charge and now chief. He has served numerous positions within the department and has earned departmental commendations and community accolades for his work.

Brown was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2015 and then to Officer-In-Charge in 2019.

The mayor's Facebook post announcing the appointment has drawn more than 300 comments and more than 800 likes from city residents supportive of the promotion.

Many shared congratulatory notes and some shared personal interactions with the new chief, commending him on his leadership and his personality traits.

"Well deserved honor. Congratulations," one city resident wrote. "He and his family have served our community with distinction. Your father would be so proud. Your leadership of our police department has been exemplary."

Another wrote, "I worked with him for a short period of time. One of the finest cops I ever met. Congrats."

"Congratulations, Chief Brown," wrote another. "I have always admired your blend of warmth, professionalism, and wit. The City of Lambertville is fortunate to have your dedication and leadership."