Murphy announces retirement of N.J. State Police Superintendent Col. Patrick Callahan
TRENTON, N.J. — Governor Phil Murphy on Monday announced the retirement of New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, concluding a 31-year career with the division that included leadership during some of the state’s most challenging moments.
“Colonel Callahan embodies the very essence of a career public servant. For more than three decades, he served the people of New Jersey with an unwavering commitment to the core values of the State Police: Honor, Duty, and Fidelity,” Murphy said in a statement. “He has been an indispensable member of my Cabinet, guiding our work through some of the most challenging moments in our state’s history – from the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy to the unprecedented demands of the COVID-19 pandemic. Above all, he has been a trusted colleague and a dear friend. I wish him nothing but the very best as he enters this next chapter of his life.”
Callahan, who will not be renominated by the incoming administration, said he retires with deep pride in the division he has led since 2017.
“After 31 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, I will be stepping down as Colonel and will not be renominated by the incoming administration,” Callahan said. “I leave this role with deep pride in the work we have accomplished and with an unwavering respect for the men and women who serve our communities every day. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside individuals who embody our core values of Honor, Duty and Fidelity. Together, we faced challenges, embraced innovation, strengthened partnerships, and remained committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public we are sworn to protect.”
Callahan said he accepts the leadership transition with gratitude.
“Transitions in leadership are part of public service, and I accept this change with gratitude for the many opportunities I have had to contribute to the sacred mission of the New Jersey State Police,” he continued. “I offer my full support to the incoming administration and to the dedicated personnel who will continue to carry our mission forward.
“To all of my colleagues, community partners, and the citizens we serve: thank you for your trust, collaboration, and support throughout the past three decades. I retire with profound appreciation and the confidence that the future of this agency remains in capable hands. While I look forward to the next chapter, I will always remain proud of the work we accomplished together and deeply honored to have served. And to each and every Jersey Trooper, stay safe out there and God bless you all.”
Callahan was sworn in as acting superintendent by former Governor Chris Christie on Oct. 31, 2017, after previously serving as deputy superintendent of operations, where he oversaw 1,800 enlisted members. He joined the New Jersey State Police in 1995 as part of the 115th Trooper Class.
During his career, Callahan served as Recovery Bureau Chief after Superstorm Sandy, commanded the Emergency Management Section, acted as Assistant State Director of the Office of Emergency Management, and chaired the Command and Control Subcommittee during New Jersey’s hosting of Super Bowl XLVIII.
Callahan lives in Warren County with his wife, Linda, and their four children. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Villanova University and a master’s degree in administrative science from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is the son of retired New Jersey State Police Major Mick Callahan.
Colonel Callahan’s retirement becomes effective Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
