Piscataway Police Has First Female Captain

21-Year Veteran Michelle Pilch Elevated to Second Highest Rank
in Township Police Department

More than two decades ago, Michelle Pilch began her law enforcement career as a patrolwoman with the Piscataway Township Police Department.  At a swearing-in ceremony this afternoon, she became the first female to achieve the rank of captain in the Department’s history of more than a century.

“Captain Pilch commands the high respect of the rank and file of the Piscataway Township Police Department and the strong confidence of Township officials,” Police Chief Thomas Mosier said.  “I am gratified to know that her professionalism and dedication are being recognized with her new rank of captain and that her history-making promotion will result in many well-deserved accolades.”

In addition to being a patrolwoman, Captain Pilch has also served the Department as a member of the Middlesex County Narcotics Task Force as well as an SVU Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant and Lieutenant.  In just the past year, Captain Pilch led the successful effort to have the Department accredited by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) which looks at many factors when determining accreditation such as department leadership, personnel development, records and financial management, arrest and investigation procedures, weapons training and call responses.

“The camaraderie and confidence of my colleagues and the love and support of my family mean the world to me,” Captain Pilch said.  “I am honored to be the first female captain in this Department’s history and I am pleased to renew my commitment to protect the residents of this Township.”

Captain Pilch will now assume command of the Department’s Support Division which handles general investigations, community policing and training.

“The Township Council and I want to congratulate Captain Pilch and wish her the best of luck in her new role,” Mayor Brian C. Wahler said.  “We are very grateful that she continues to serve our community and help keep it safe.”

In the photo, Captain Pilch is sworn in by Mayor Wahler next to her husband Sergeant Raymond Pilch.