STATE COLLEGE — The Borough of State College has selected Joseph Merrill to be the next Chief of Police for the State College Police Department. T
The process to select a new chief began in February after the announcement of Chief John Gardner’s retirement at the end of 2025.
“The Borough of State College is looking forward to welcoming Joe Merrill to the State College Police Department,” said Borough Manager Tom Fountaine. “Chief Merrill brings an excellent background and a record of leadership to the State College Police Department. During his career with the Altoona Police Department, he has held various roles, including serving as Interim Altoona City Manager. As a State College native, he also has good knowledge and understanding of the community. I am confident that he will be a strong leader for the State College Police Department.”
Merrill is currently the Chief of Police for the City of Altoona, where he has held this title since March 2021.
“I am extremely grateful to be selected as the next Chief of the State College Police Department,” said Merrill. “It has been an honor and a privilege to work side by side with the men and women of the Altoona Police Department for the last 20 years. However, I look forward to this next chapter of my career. I am excited for the opportunity to raise my children and serve in the community I still consider home.”
