Reader Poll: Do You Support Norristown's Police Chief Transition Process?

NORRISTOWN, PA — Norristown has reached the final stage in its search for a new police chief, as it has narrowed the field to three finalists after a months-long search.

The search comes on the heels of the fraught departure of the last police chief, Jacqueline Bailey-Davis, who left for uncertain reasons after being placed on administrative leave in the fall of 2024. Municipal council has repeatedly declined to explain those reasons to the public, despite pressure from former officials who say the lack of transparency about the issues surrounding her departure will erode trust in local government.

Bailey-Davis marked the fourth police chief in the last four years, as the position has seen remarkable turnover and a lack of stability. Norristown Lieutenant James Angelucci has served as interim chief since Bailey-Davis's departure.

The municipality recently introduced the community to the three finalists for the job as part of a public interview and question and answer session. The finalists are Mark Benjamin, Richard Clowser, and Michael Trail.

Officials have said they hope the openness of the hiring process restores trust in the municipality and allows the police department's leadership to turn a page to a more stable era. Critics say that trust is long gone given the nature of Bailey-Davis's tenure.