Veteran law enforcement leader brings 26 years of experience to one of the state’s top public safety roles.
TRENTON, NJ – Governor Mikie Sherrill has nominated Jeanne Hengemuhle to serve as the next Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP), citing her decades of leadership and dedication to public service. Hengemuhle, who has spent 26 years with the agency and currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, will assume the role of Acting Superintendent effective Thursday, February 26, 2026.
Key Points
- Jeanne Hengemuhle will take over as Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.
- She succeeds Lt. Col. David Sierotowicz, who has served in the interim role since January 1.
- Governor Sherrill praised Hengemuhle’s leadership and experience in law enforcement and emergency management.
Hengemuhle to lead during period of statewide recovery
Governor Sherrill said Hengemuhle’s promotion comes at a pivotal time for New Jersey, following two historic winter storms that tested the state’s emergency response system. “Jeanne Hengemuhle is a dedicated public servant with decades of experience in the State Police,” Sherrill said. “She understands not only the responsibilities of the job, but also the profound duty to serve and protect our communities each and every day.”
Hengemuhle will succeed Lieutenant Colonel David Sierotowicz, who has led the NJSP on an interim basis since the start of the year. Sierotowicz also served as head of the Office of Emergency Management, coordinating storm recovery and public safety operations.
Governor thanks outgoing interim leader
Governor Sherrill expressed gratitude to Sierotowicz for his “unwavering dedication” during an especially demanding winter. “In just one month, our state has seen two historic winter storms,” she said. “Lieutenant Colonel Sierotowicz helped ensure we responded quickly and effectively to mitigate the impact of the storms and safeguard our residents. We owe him a debt of gratitude.”
Hengemuhle’s appointment is expected to be formally submitted to the state Senate for confirmation later this spring.
Tags: New Jersey, State Police, Mikie Sherrill