Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds announced the appointment of James W. McGowan as chief of county detectives for the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office (ACPO). This appointment reflects the Prosecutor’s Office’s ongoing commitment to strengthening investigative operations, enhancing coordination among law-enforcement partners, and ensuring the highest standards of public safety throughout Atlantic County.
McGowan brings nearly three decades of law enforcement, investigative, and executive leadership experience to the position. A 20-year resident of Linwood, he has longstanding ties to Atlantic County and has worked extensively with local, state, and federal law-enforcement agencies on matters involving public safety, intelligence, and complex criminal investigations.
McGowan retired from the New Jersey State Police in 2024 after 26 years of distinguished service, attaining the rank of Major. His career included numerous investigative, supervisory, and executive assignments, with extensive experience in complex and sensitive investigations, criminal and internal investigations, field operations, intelligence management, and multi-agency coordination. As a senior executive, he led large-scale law-enforcement operations, supervised hundreds of sworn and civilian personnel, and collaborated closely with county, state, and federal partners on public-safety initiatives.
Following his State Police career, McGowan served as Vice President of Security for Tropicana Atlantic City, where he directed a 24/7 security operation of more than 160 employees. In that role, he maintained strong partnerships with the Atlantic City Police Department and federal, state, and county law-enforcement agencies, further strengthening his operational and leadership experience within Atlantic County.
Prosecutor Reynolds stated:
“Jim’s extensive investigative background, executive leadership experience, and deep commitment to Atlantic County make him exceptionally well-qualified to serve as Chief of County Detectives. His appointment will strengthen the Prosecutor’s Office mission, reinforce our partnerships with law-enforcement agencies, and support our continued efforts to protect the residents and visitors of Atlantic County.”
As Chief of County Detectives, McGowan will oversee investigative operations, support prosecutorial initiatives, advance intelligence-driven strategies, and ensure the effective coordination of county wide law-enforcement resources.
