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New Chief In Town: McCullagh Sworn In As Clarkstown's Top Cop

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- More than 100 people turned out Tuesday to watch as Lt. Raymond McCullagh became the 11th Clarkstown Police Chief during a swearing-in ceremony at Town Hall. 

Chief Raymond McCullagh during his swearing-in ceremony.

Chief Raymond McCullagh during his swearing-in ceremony.

Photo Credit: Clarkstown Police Department
Clarkstown New Chief Raymond McCullagh

Clarkstown New Chief Raymond McCullagh

Photo Credit: Clarkstown Police Department

McCullagh, a lifetime Clarkstown resident, was selected in a 3-0-2 vote by the Clarkstown Town Board over two higher-ranking candidates who were vying for the position.

“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.

He takes over following the firing two weeks ago of former Chief Michael Sullivan by the Town Board. Sullivan is running against Hoehmann this fall for the Supervisor position.

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.

With more than three decades of law enforcement under his belt, McCullagh said: “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.”

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.

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