Acting NCCo police chief named permanent chief

The acting police chief in New Castle County loses the “acting” part of his title.

Major Michael McGowan first joined the New Castle County Police in 1989, and now has been named permanent chief.  McGowan has been working as “acting” chief since former chief Rick Gregory was appointed to be the county’s chief administrative officer in September.  County Executive Chris Coons picked McGowan from a group of several internal applicants.  The decision must be approved by New Castle County Council.  A decision is expected at council’s meeting on March 23.

McGowan says, “Being a police officer is my life’s work and my passion.  I want to continue to serve the community while bringing out the best of the men and women in this department, who deserve so much praise for making this a strong and effective agency.”

McGowan was named Kiwanis Officer of the Year in 1994 after capturing accused murderer Brian Steckel.  Steckel was executed for his crimes in 2005.