New police chief set for Cherry Hill

CHERRY HILL - A new chief will lead the Cherry Hill Police Department next year, as the current chief is retiring after working for 36 years on the force.

Capt. William "Bud" Monaghan will take over Jan. 1, Mayor Chuck Cahn announced Monday.

"I'm excited by the opportunity," Monaghan said Monday, hours after learning of the promotion.

"I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead the men and women of the Cherry Hill Police Department," said Monaghan, who is married with two young children. "I look forward to continuing to run a strong and efficient department and know that public safety is a top concern to every resident of Cherry Hill."

Monaghan succeeds Rick DelCampo, who will retire Dec. 31 after 36 years with the force, and 3 1/2 years leading the department.

"It has been my privilege to work with and alongside Chief DelCampo," Cahn said. "I want to thank him for his dedication to public service and his steadfast leadership."

In the last several years, Cherry Hill police have invested in technology that has assisted with patrols and investigations. Monaghan said he expected to continue investment and improving efficiency.

Monaghan started with the department as a patrol officer in 1995. He has a bachelor's degree in law and justice from what is now Rowan University, and a master's degree in human resources training and development from Seton Hall University. He is also a graduate of the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command.

Monaghan served as a detective, sergeant, and lieutenant before being promoted to captain in 2011.

"We are excited about the future of our police department under Capt. Monaghan's leadership," the mayor said. "Bud has the important combination of experience, knowledge, and a high level of dedication that make him the ideal person for this job, and that have earned him respect and trust within the department."

Monaghan is currently head of the department's administrative division, where he has spent the last several years supervising, managing, and coordinating police operations, including the Office of Emergency Management.

— Barbara Boyer