URGENT UPDATE: Thomas Nolan has just been sworn in as the new Deputy Chief of the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, marking a significant shift in leadership for local law enforcement. The ceremony took place on September 18, 2025, in Norristown, PA, before an audience of law enforcement officials, including Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin R. Steele and Court of Common Pleas Judge Risa Vetri Ferman.
Deputy Chief Nolan, who previously served as the Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police in Upper Merion Township for 39 years, will now work under Chief Detective Mark Bernstiel, overseeing a team of 62 sworn and unsworn members within the Detective Bureau. His extensive experience is expected to bring immediate improvements to the department’s operations.
Nolan joined the Montgomery County Detective Bureau on August 12, 2024, after a distinguished career where he not only led the Upper Merion Police Department since June 2012 but also took on the role of the Montgomery County Central SWAT Leader/Commander in 2001. His leadership skills and local knowledge are already making waves in the community.
A key achievement so far has been the establishment of the new Threat Assessment Management Unit (TAMU), which Nolan has been instrumental in launching. This unit is dedicated to investigating threats against public officials, educational institutions, places of worship, and other vulnerable locations within the county. Nolan assembled a dedicated seven-member team tasked with ensuring the safety of Montgomery County residents.
In an official statement, DA Steele praised Nolan, stating,
“Tom Nolan is a highly respected law enforcement professional who brings extensive expertise to the Deputy Chief position. Not only is he an experienced leader, but he also has extensive knowledge of Montgomery County and its many townships, boroughs, and communities.”
The urgency of Nolan’s new role cannot be overstated as he steps into leadership during a time when community safety is paramount. The establishment of TAMU signals a proactive approach to addressing threats and enhancing public safety.
As Deputy Chief Nolan begins his tenure, the community is eager to see the impact of his leadership. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as we monitor how the Montgomery County Detective Bureau evolves under his guidance.
