Morris County honors top sheriff’s officer Chief Zienowicz on retirement after nearly 25 years of service
MORRIS COUNTY, N.J. – The Morris County Board of County Commissioners today formally recognized Chief Kelley Zienowicz with a framed resolution of honor, commemorating her retirement and nearly 25 years of distinguished service with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
Chief Zienowicz, who began her career with the agency as a civilian employee in 1999, rose steadily through the ranks — from sheriff’s investigator in 2000 to chief sheriff’s officer in 2020. Her career reflects a deep commitment to public safety, professional excellence and service to the people of Morris County.
“I want to thank Chief Kelley Zienowicz for her dedicated service, not only as our Chief for the last six years, but for her 25 plus years with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office,” Kelley has risen through the ranks of the Office leaving an indelible mark on those she collaborated with,” said Sheriff James M. Gannon.
“I personally knew her and worked with her as a Crime Scene Detective some years ago. We worked good cases together and saw successful outcomes. Outcomes which brought justice to those who deserved it as well as those who sought it,” the sheriff added. “I have observed her work ethic and her sophisticated approach to solve matters that needed her attention. Chief Zienowicz was always keen to where our organization was and is certainly leaving it better prepared for the future. Thank you, Kelley and all the best, to you and your family.”
Chief Zienowicz earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Boston College and a Master of Arts in forensic psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She graduated from the FBI National Academy’s 10-week executive law enforcement training program with the 273rd class in 2018, as one of 20 women among 228 officers.
“We extend our deepest gratitude for Chief Zienowicz’s leadership, integrity and selfless dedication to public safety,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, who presented the board’s resolution during a walkout ceremony held at the Morris County Administration Building in Morristown.
Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll were also in attendance to honor Chief Zienowicz and her exemplary service.
Throughout her career, Chief Zienowicz participated in high-profile investigations, including the Roxbury “Funcoland” double homicide in 2001 and the 2009 Father Hinds homicide case in Chatham. She implemented key operational systems such as the BEAST evidence tracking system and CivilServe database, and led units spanning internal affairs, community outreach, courthouse security, crime scene investigations, evidence and the bomb unit.
As Chief, she guided the Sheriff’s Office through the COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest, and the integration of the Morris County Park Police. Beyond Morris County, Chief Zienowicz has contributed to the future of law enforcement by serving as a faculty member of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command & Leadership Program and instructing at the International Law Enforcement Academy in Hungary.
Throughout her accomplished career, Chief Zienowicz balanced a demanding professional life with her role as a devoted wife and mother of four, finding joy in fitness, art and family.
