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Lifetime Resident Appointed New Clarkstown Police Chief

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. --  The Clarkstown Town Board chose one of its lieutenants to be the town's new top cop following the firing two weeks ago of former Chief Michael Sullivan.

New Clarkstown Chief Raymond McCullagh

New Clarkstown Chief Raymond McCullagh

Photo Credit: Facebook

Lt. Raymond McCullagh, a lifetime Clarkstown resident, was selected in a 3-0-2 vote over two higher-ranking candidates who were vying for the position Thursday night.

“Having worked his way up from patrol, Ray is a cop’s cop. I am proud to put him forward as our next Chief of Police and I am confident he will make one of the greatest Police Department’s in our country even better,” said Supervisor George Hoehmann.

McCullagh was selected from a list of qualified law enforcement professionals provided by Rockland County that included Capt. Robert Mahon, who has led the department since Sullivan's suspension in 2016, and Capt. Anthony Ovchinnikoff.  

The new chief brings with him over three decades of law enforcement experience, having been a member of the Clarkstown Police Department for the past 28 years and served 4 years with the New York City Police Department.

“I am honored for the opportunity to serve the people of Clarkstown as their Chief of Police,” said McCullagh. “We have a world-class police department and it is a privilege to lead the men and women who put on their uniform every day to keep us safe. They exemplify integrity and professionalism, and that’s how I intend to lead the Clarkstown Police Department. I now look forward to continue serving the town that has given me so much.”

McCullagh worked his way up the ranks of the police department from patrol officer, investigator, patrol sergeant, Special Operations Sergeant, Patrol lieutenant, to Administrative lieutenant, and was a member of the Rockland County Narcotics Task Force and the Town’s Critical Incident Response Team.

A graduate of Clarkstown schools, McCullagh received a bachelor's degree from LaSalle University in Philadelphia. He attended the FBI National Academy and has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career.

A swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Town Hall following the Town Board Workshop.

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