Lawrence Township is about to start a new chapter in its police department.
On January 1, 2025, Lt. Kevin Reading, Jr. will become the Interim Police Chief.
He’s stepping in as Chief Christopher Longo retires after serving the department for 25 years.
This change is much more than passing a title—it’s about honoring a long tradition of service while looking forward to fresh leadership and ideas.
And Lt. Reading is well-prepared for this role.
He’s spent over twenty years in law enforcement and has led the Investigation Division, handling tough cases and managing detectives, officers, and staff.
As part of the Mercer County Shooting Response Team, he worked on over 500 criminal investigations and was the lead detective in over 60 cases.
Since he’s someone with hands-on experience and a track record of getting results, Township officials have confidence in Reading.
Municipal Manager Kevin Nerwinski highlighted Reading’s strong leadership and experience, saying these qualities make him the right choice for Interim Chief.
Reading’s career is full of accomplishments.
- He was named Lawrence Township Police Officer of the Year in 2014.
- He has received multiple Commendable Service Awards.
- He’s completed advanced training in leadership, including the FBI LEEDA Executive Leadership Institute.
- He’s gained skills in areas like homicide investigations and financial crimes.
This leadership change is happening during a special year for the police department.
The Lawrence Township Police Department is celebrating 100 years of service.
It started in 1924 with just one constable, Joseph Hopkins, patrolling on a Harley Davidson.
Over the years, the department has grown into a modern force with 60 officers.
The centennial celebration has been a big deal, with events like unveiling a retro police car, special merchandise, and a gala to honor the department’s history and its past leaders.
Chief Longo has also been a big part of the department’s history.
He grew up in Lawrence Township and started working with the Lawrence Police Department as a police dispatcher in September 1999.
Over the years, he climbed the ranks to become a detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and finally chief in 2022.
For Longo, this job has always been personal––it has been much more than work for him.
He’s from this community, and his family has a long history of serving the township.
His father worked for the township for 38 years, and his mother worked in local schools for decades.
During his time as chief, Longo faced challenges like a smaller police force but remained focused on supporting his team and the community.
Even though most current officers are relatively new, he’s proud of how they’ve stepped up and done their jobs well.
Longo’s leadership has earned him many awards, including Supervisor of the Year and commendations for life-saving efforts.
He’s also taken courses to improve his leadership skills, earned certifications, and attended top programs like the FBI-Mid Atlantic Law Enforcement Executive Development Program.
As Longo gets ready to retire, he’s reflecting on his career with gratitude.
Being chief of police in the town where he grew up has been a dream come true for him.
Although he’s stepping into a new role in human resources at a utility company, he feels confident about the department’s future.
He believes the officers and new leadership will continue the department’s legacy of service and dedication.
The Lawrence Township Police Department is about more than just enforcing laws.
It’s a big part of the community, helping people feel safe and connected.
As Lt. Reading takes over, he’ll lead a department built on trust, tradition, and strong relationships.
With his experience and skills, he’s ready to guide the department into its next chapter.
This change is the perfect chance to honor the past and look forward to what’s ahead.