Chief Keith Morris is retiring from the Allentown Police Department and has accepted a conditional offer to be chief of the Penn State University department.

Morris was sworn-in as interim chief in October 2016 replacing Chief Joel Fitzgerald, who was appointed chief of police in Fort Worth, Texas. City Council confirmed Morris as permanent chief last fall.

Chief Morris joined the department in 1997 and rose through the ranks before being promoted to Assistant Chief in December 2013. Morris was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in May 2007. He accepted the position of Assistant Hostage Negotiation Team Commander in December 2007. Morris assumed command of the Youth Division in December 2007. He was promoted to captain in January 2011 and began heading-up CID in September 2013. In 2013, Morris was named commander of the Hostage Negotiation Team and Director of Training of the Gerald M. Monahan Sr. Police Academy.

“Keith had a huge impact in leading the department both internally and externally,” said Mayor Ed Pawlowski. “He continued to improve the crime rate in the city. He increased the visibility of the department and worked enthusiastically to cement the relationship between the department and the community.”

Morris said, “I would like to thank Mayor Pawlowski for the opportunity that he afforded me, and the confidence he had in me to be able to lead this great department. The City of Allentown and the Allentown Police Department have been a large part of my life over the last 20-years, and therefore this was not a decision that was made lightly. During my time here I have worked with many dedicated individuals and made professional contacts, but most importantly made lifelong friendships. I believe that we worked hard towards solidifying relationships with our community, I am proud of every member of the Allentown Police Department and the dedication that show each and every day in the face of adversity.”

Chief Morris’ retirement is effective April 21.

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