MAYS LANDING — A former New Jersey State Police major who most recently headed security operations at Tropicana Atlantic City has been named Atlantic County’s new chief of county detectives.
Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds announced Monday the appointment of James W. McGowan as chief of county detectives for the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office.
McGowan brings nearly three decades of law enforcement, investigative and executive leadership experience to the position, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.
A 20-year Linwood resident, McGowan retired from the New Jersey State Police in 2024 after 26 years of service, reaching the rank of major.
His State Police career included investigative, supervisory and executive assignments involving complex and sensitive investigations, criminal and internal investigations, field operations, intelligence management and coordination among multiple law enforcement agencies.
According to the Prosecutor’s Office, McGowan also led large-scale law enforcement operations, supervised hundreds of sworn and civilian employees and worked with county, state and federal agencies on public safety initiatives.
Following his retirement from the State Police, McGowan moved into the casino industry as vice president of security for Tropicana Atlantic City.
There, he directed a 24-hour security operation employing more than 160 people and worked with the Atlantic City Police Department and other local, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
“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,” Reynolds said.
“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,” Reynolds added.
As chief of county detectives, McGowan will oversee investigative operations within the Prosecutor’s Office, support prosecutorial initiatives and help coordinate law enforcement resources throughout Atlantic County.
His responsibilities will also include advancing intelligence-driven strategies and strengthening cooperation among law enforcement agencies, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office serves as the county’s chief law enforcement agency and works with municipal police departments and other agencies on criminal investigations and prosecutions throughout Atlantic County.
