Newark Police Department Chief of Police Paul Tiernan announced that he will retire from the agency effective January 31, 2023. Chief Tiernan was hired by NPD in September 2007 after a distinguished law enforcement career in Teaneck, New Jersey. Chief Tiernan was first sworn-in as a police officer in 1980 and advanced through the ranks before becoming chief of the Teaneck Police Department in 2003, a position he held for four years. 

Under Chief Tiernan’s leadership, the City experienced a significant reduction in violent crime including a 79% decrease in robberies and a 57% decrease in aggravated assaults. Chief Tiernan is credited with the development of a robust surveillance camera network, the creation of the department’s first plainclothes Street Crimes Unit to conduct targeted enforcement in high crime areas, and the formation of the Special Operations Unit dedicated to community engagement.

Chief Tiernan regularly engaged constituent groups such as the NAACP to highlight the achievements of the officers serving under him and to make meaningful improvements in the relationships between residents and police. He also worked with local legislators to advocate on behalf of the force to increase education and training, update equipment, and boost officer recruitment and retention. 

Deputy Police Chief Mark Farrall was named Acting Chief effective January 5, 2023.