Josiah Murphy’s photo has been added to the borough’s Police Department Wall of Police Chiefs.
“It honors “(Murphy’s) legacy and the unwavering commitment that he and those who have served before him have shown to this department and the community,” the department posted on social media, post, adding its congratulations to the chief on his retirement after 25 years of service.
Murphy began his law-enforcement career in 2000 after graduating as a SLEO (Special Law Enforcement Officer) II from the Cape May County Police Academy, serving in the North Wildwood Police Department. Later that year, he joined the Burlington County Bridge Commission Police, continuing his work as a SLEO II. In 2001, he was hired as a patrolman with the Palmyra police and attended the Burlington County Police Academy in class No. 80.
A life-long borough resident and graduate of Palmyra High School, Murphy went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in law and justice from Rowan University. He has served in many vital roles, including as a member of the department’s S.W.A.T. Team from 2006 to 2011, a firearms and taser instructor and detective bureau member beginning in 2011.
Murphy was promoted to sergeant in 2012, sworn in as lieutenant in 2020, and ultimately rose to the rank of police chief in May 2024.
“As the chief of police, it is my goal to continue our mission of providing a professional and ethical public- safety service to those that live and pass through our community,” he had promised upon taking on the role. “As the chief, I will make sure that each and every officer is provided with the best training available so that we can provide the best service possible to our community.
“We will continue to host and participate in as many community programs and events as possible to continue building positive relationships between the police and the community,” Murphy added. “I believe that it is my responsibility as the chief to ensure a healthy work environment for all of our officers and staff, while focusing on employee morale, officer retention and training the future leaders of this department.”
Murphy is also a graduate of the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Program, further exemplifying his commitment to professional excellence and leadership.
The chief sent council a letter of retirement in January. Discussion items regarding the vacancy and process were on council’s agenda for its recent caucus meeting, as was a letter of resignation from officer Jonathan McElroy.
Murphy looks forward to spending more time with his wife and three children. While he will deeply miss the camaraderie and time spent with the men and women of the police department, his legacy of leadership, dedication and service will continue to inspire, the borough noted.
“Please join us in thanking Chief Murphy for his service and wishing him a happy, healthy and well-deserved retirement,” the department’s post stated.
“Will take it from here chief.”
