Search Underway For Next Lower Makefield Police Chief

LOWER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA —Lower Makefield Township is starting the process to find its next candidate the lead its police department and replace therecently retired Police Chief Kenneth Coluzzi.

Township officials posted a hiring notice seeking "an experienced and visionary police executive" to serve as the next police chief.

"This position offers a unique opportunity to lead the department following the 24-year tenure of the prior Chief of Police, who was a respected and dedicated leader in the community and retired at year's end," officials said.

For 24 years, Coluzzi led the Lower Makefield Township Police Department while also taking on roles as the township's emergency management coordinator and temporary township manager.

Coluzzi announced his retirement in mid-December, marking the end of a 48-year career in law enforcement.

His distinguished career included investigating the famous "Boy in the Box" case in Philadelphia.

This is the job description for the position that Lower Makefield posted:

Chief of Police

The full-service department is accredited through the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (PLEAC) and consists of 39 sworn officers, with an authorized complement of 41 sworn officers, serving a resident population of approximately 33,000 residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership while maintaining and enhancing PLEAC accreditation standards.
• Oversee departmental budgets, personnel, and operational strategies.
• Promote transparency, equity, and public trust through community-oriented policing.
• Collaborate with Township leadership, residents, and regional partners.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Qualifications

• Extensive law enforcement experience, including command-level positions (rank of Sergeant or higher).
• Proven record of ethical leadership and community engagement.
• Strong knowledge of modern policing strategies and best practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
• Executive law enforcement training through the FBI National Academy, Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, or similar programs is highly preferred.

How to Apply

Submit a letter of interest and résumé (PDF format) via email to: David W. Kratzer, Jr., Township Manager, at dkratzer@lmt.org.

Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24.