Souderton swears in Jeffrey O'Brien as new police chief

Jeffrey O'Brien was sworn in as Soudersburg’s (Souderton) police chief at the borough council meeting, where town leaders praised the result of a national search and O'Brien pledged to prioritize community-oriented policing and accountability.

Mayor (unnamed) opened the presentation by thanking interim leaders and the Police Chief Search Committee — Borough Manager Sarah Jeragheek and councilors Matt Scholly, Matt Dinena and Stephanie Costa — and credited Aspirant Consulting Group for conducting a search that drew more than 70 applicants. The mayor said O'Brien brought decades of experience from the Plymouth Township Police Department and stressed his local roots: “He grew up here. He went to school in this building,” the mayor said.

During the ceremonial portion, O'Brien repeated the oath of office and addressed the council and residents. “I am fully aware of the trust you have placed in me,” O'Brien said. He thanked his family and said he intends to be “approachable,” present and responsive to community concerns and to hold himself accountable when mistakes are made. “You have the right to demand a police department that is hardworking, knowledgeable, and capable of assisting you when you are in need,” he told the audience.

O'Brien emphasized that he wants the department to remain community oriented and to serve elected officials, the community and the department equally. He said changes are likely during the transition but asked the public to keep an open mind and judge results by the department’s performance.

After the formal remarks, the council invited attendees to a short reception in the lobby with O'Brien and his family. The council did not vote on any personnel motions during the meeting; the swearing-in was presented as a ceremonial, formal acceptance of the chief's duties.

What happens next: O'Brien begins duties as sworn chief and will work with borough staff and council on department operations and community engagement plans.