Timothy O’Connor hired as Bethel Park police chief
Bethel Park has an extensive history of having long-serving chiefs of police, and on Feb. 23, council hired a longtime member of Pittsburgh Police to lead its department.
Timothy O’Connor has been a police officer with the city of Pittsburgh since 1980. He most recently served as police commander of Zone 5, which covers the city’s East End. He supervised a team of 90 officers.
Council began a nationwide search for a chief when John Mackey retired in October. The department’s lieutenant, David Rogan, was promoted to acting chief, but Rogan plans to retire as well at the end of March.
About 65 people applied for the job.
“As we whittled the candidates down, it became difficult. We had a great group of people, both internal and external, who wanted to work here,” said Councilman Mark O’Brien. “I believe that Chief O’Connor is the best fit for Bethel Park.”
O’Brien said he was particularly impressed with O’Connor’s background in community outreach. As part of his duties as commander, O’Connor worked with community leaders and citizens to solve cases and prevent crime.
“I try to be as accessible as possible and I want to continue that in Bethel Park,” he said. “I don’t like staying confined in the office. One of the best aspects of law enforcement is to get out and meet the people you serve.”
O’Connor was set to join Bethel Park Police the day after he was appointed chief. He’s slated to take over the chief duties April 1, the day after Rogan is to officially retire.
O’Connor and his wife Diane live in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Pittsburgh, but within a year, they will move to Bethel Park, as required by the municipality. O’Connor grew up in Carrick and said he routinely visits the South Hills to shop and visit family members.
“I’m very familiar with South Hills. I think it will be an easy transition,” he said.
O’Connor said he has no plans for sweeping changes. Instead, he wants to observe the department for several months before making revisions.
O’Connor has a long career in law enforcement. He worked as a military police officer during his time in the Army and as a state corrections officer before joining Pittsburgh Police. He also has two masters degrees and is a graduate and member of the FBI National Academy.
District Judge Rob Arnoni administered the oath of office and also congratulated O’Connor on his new position.
“This is an excellent community with endless opportunity. We certainly have challenges, but the opportunities here are endless and I welcome you with open arms,” Arnoni said.
Since the Bethel Park Police Department was formed in 1941, the force has had only five chiefs. Mackey served as chief for nearly 15 years before he retired in October.