New Chief of Police Appointed

Posted: June 30, 2021

At the township council meeting of June 24, 2021, Township Manager Stephen Mountain announced that Lieutenant Will Harzula has been selected as the new chief of police for the Township of Randolph. Lieutenant Harzula will replace Chief David Stokoe, who will be retiring from the position on June 30th.

Raised in Middlesex, New Jersey, Lieutenant Harzula was a three-sport athlete in high school and graduated with honors. After high school, Lieutenant Harzula went on to attend The College of New Jersey and graduated with a bachelor of arts in law and justice in 1998.

Upon graduating college, Lieutenant Harzula enlisted in the U.S. Army. While enlisted, Lieutenant Harzula rose to the level of E-6 Staff Sergeant. He also attended the prestigious Army Ranger School, completing the program as a Distinguished Honor Graduate. Lieutenant Harzula was deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11. While in active duty, his squad completed several successful missions. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions while deployed.

In 2003, Lieutenant Harzula left the military to pursue a career in law enforcement. After graduating from the Union County Police Academy that year, he was appointed as a Randolph Township patrol officer. Following his appointment, Lt. Harzula rose through the ranks to the post of Lieutenant, a capacity in which he served since 2013. During his eight-year tenure as lieutenant, he headed the Patrol Division for six years and the Detective Division and Internal Affairs for two years.

Lieutenant Harzula brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position of police chief. He also possesses a deep understanding of Randolph Township and will continue to advocate the community policing philosophy demonstrated by his predecessors. Most importantly, Lieutenant Harzula is a leader. Throughout his career he has exhibited a command presence, and these leadership skills will allow him to effectively transition into the role of chief of police.

Lt. Harzula currently resides in Middlesex, New Jersey with his wife, Susana, and three children. He will be sworn in privately to allow him to assume the position on July 1st. A public swearing-in ceremony will be held later in July.