Rendell nominates police commissioner

HARRISBURG - Gov. Rendell yesterday nominated a 30-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police to head the 6,400-member force.

The governor tapped Lt. Col. Frank Pawlowski, who has been acting commissioner since July, to succeed former Col. Jeffrey B. Miller.

Miller retired this summer to take a job as the NFL's director of strategic security.

"Lt. Col. Pawlowski has demonstrated a level of management experience and leadership that will serve him well as he guides one of the nation's largest state police organizations," Rendell said in a statement. "I am pleased to nominate him to this important position within my cabinet."

Pawlowski needs to be confirmed by the state Senate, at which point he will assume the rank of colonel.

"I am honored to be nominated by Gov. Rendell, and it is a privilege to lead the 6,400 men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police - the highest authorized complement ever - who have dedicated themselves to serving the commonwealth," Pawlowski said yesterday, also in a statement. "I look forward to continuing to expand our partnerships with local government and federal agencies as we work together to keep our communities safe."

Pawlowski enlisted in the state police in June 1978. He began his career in patrol and criminal investigation assignments in the southeastern part of the state.

He later held command positions at the troop level.