Former State College Chief Named Interim Head of Ferguson Township Police Department

Former State College Police Chief Tom King has been appointed as interim head of the Ferguson Township Police Department as it moves closer to filling the position on a permanent basis.

King, who served as the borough’s chief for 23 years before his retirement from the position in 2016, will take on the temporary role in mid-November following the retirement of Lt. Daniel Lewis, who has served as acting chief since earlier this year, according to a township news release on Thursday.

Lewis, a 13-year department veteran, previously served as an officer and detective. He played a key role in developing and leading the department’s cell phone forensic investigation unit, which provides regional assistance.

“The township extends its appreciation for his service and contributions to the community and wishes him continued success in his future endeavors,” the township wrote in the news release.

King will be the third interim leader of the department since former chief John Petrick resigned in September 2024. Sgt. Shawn Morrison served as acting chief following Petrick’s departure before returning to regular duties for what the township described as personal reasons.

Interviews with four finalists for the permanent police chief position are scheduled for Oct. 13 and Oct. 14. Each candidate will participate in structured interviews with three panels representing the township’s leadership team, regional law enforcement and municipal leaders, and a community panel comprised of residents.

Until a new chief is on board, King will lead the department after serving in a consultant role for the past two months. A 35-year veteran of the State College Police Department, he was chief from 1993 to 2016, and after his retirement served as assistant borough manager for five years.

The township executed a consultant agreement with Tom King Law Enforcement Consulting Services on Aug. 5. Since then his work has included evaluating and assisting the department’s accreditation program, meeting periodically with Lewis and Township Manager Centrice Martin to discuss administrative and operational matters and supporting the human resources with the police chief recruitment process.

“We’re grateful for Tom King’s willingness to step in during this important period,” Martin said in a statement. “His extensive experience in community policing and executive leadership will provide valuable continuity as the township completes the police chief recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the high standard of professionalism and service that our community expects.”