WAYNE — Police Chief John McNiff will resign from his post next month, the mayor said Thursday.
McNiff, 48, who led the 125-member department for more than four years, told council he plans to move with his family, Mayor Christopher Vergano said.
The outgoing boss initiated a comprehensive personnel change.
Under McNiff’s command, at least 50 young police officers were hired as experienced officers retired. He was also in charge of the police department when it opened its expanded headquarters at City Hall just before the pandemic.
“He has taken the department to a new level of excellence,” Vergano said. “We wish him the best in the next chapter of his life.”
McNiff, who oversees a budget of $18.7 million, succeeded former police chief James Clarke, whose annual salary is $259,770, according to pension records.
He did not immediately respond to a request for comment on his retirement, which will take effect on July 3.
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McNiff, the son of the late Bloomfield Chief John McNiff, began his career as a West Caldwell patrol officer in March 1996. He later transferred to the Montclair Police Department, where he was a DARE officer. His tour of duty began in Wayne shortly before 9/11.
McNiff and his wife, Jacqueline McNiff, a science teacher at Anthony Wayne Middle School, have three children.
Vergano said the department’s four captains, including McNiff’s brother, Captain Michael McNiff, were invited to apply for the chief position.
Philip DeVencentis is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news in your local community, subscribe or activate your digital account today.
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This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Wayne Police Chief Announces Resignation from Police Service
