Gov. Sherrill historically appoints first woman as superintendent of NJ State Police

TRENTON, New Jersey (WABC) -- Governor Mikie Sherrill made a historic appointment to the New Jersey State Police force.

Sherrill announced Jeanne Hengemuhle to take over as the department's superintendent, serving as the first woman and openly gay person to head the department.

Hengemuhle served 26 years in the state police and retired in 2024 as a lieutenant colonel.

She will take over as acting superintendent Thursday while she awaits Senate confirmation.

----------

* Get Eyewitness News Delivered

* More New Jersey news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.