Crime & Safety

Newtown Township Police Department Honors Retiring Executive Assistant

Jean Tanner served as the "heartbeat" of the department, managing its administrative duties like a "well-oiled machine."

(Newtown Township Police Department)

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — After 25 years of dedicated service to the Newtown Township Police Department, Jean Tanner retired on May 31.

Hired on March 17, 1998, as the police business manager, Tanner quickly became the heartbeat of the department. She managed the daily administrative duties like a well-oiled machine, led the civilian support staff, and was integral in many facets of the police department.

As the department grew and the job evolved, so did Jean.

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In 2008, Chief Henry Pasqualini changed her title to Executive Assistant to the Chief of Police.

Throughout her time with the department, Jean served four police chiefs: Chief Martin Duffy, Chief Henry Pasqualini, Interim-Chief Jason Harris, and Chief John Hearn.

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Jean was authorized to make decisions on critical matters for all of the chiefs and her knowledge of the township helped enormously.

Having grown up in Newtown, Jean was well-established as a former Newtown Township Board Supervisors memberand was in tune with the community’s needs. With this wealth of knowledge, she aided each chief in better serving the community.

At community events, there was always someone who had a connection with Jean, whether it be a neighbor, a lifelong friend, or a relative.

"We are fortunate that she became such an integral part of our family," said Chief John Hearn. "Her connection to Newtown and its history was a tremendous benefit to the department and the community we serve."

On May 30, the Newtown Township Police Department celebrated Jean’s retirement with her family, members of the community, elected officials, officers from surrounding agencies, and past and current township employees.

Chief Hearn presented Jean with a 25-years-of-service plaque and an Eagle Award honoring her retirement. She also received a joint Senate citation and flag of the Commonwealth from State Senator Steve Santarsiero and State Senator Frank Farry, and a beautiful portrait presented by the Police Business Association (PBA). Pennsylvania State Representative Kristin Marcell’s Office also presented Jean with a citation and flag in recognition of her retirement.

"We congratulate Jean on a job well done and a retirement well deserved! We appreciate the legacy of her work," said Chief Hearn. "Words cannot express how greatly she will be missed, but we are glad she will be able to spend more time with her husband, Bill, and with her children and grandchildren."


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