Mayor Ray O’Connell is nominating Charles Roca to be Chief of the Allentown Police Department.
Roca has been serving as interim chief since June 16 following the retirement of Chief Glenn Granitz Jr.
Prior to becoming interim chief, Roca had been serving as Assistant Chief of Police – Operations.
Roca was hired by the Allentown Police Department in January 2002 and in just two months became a vice detective. He later was a K9 handler while working in the patrol division. Roca was promoted to sergeant in April 2012 and to lieutenant in April 2016. While a lieutenant he commanded the 1st and 4th platoons. Roca was promoted to captain in April 2018.
O’Connell said, “Chief Roca’s experience covers investigative, patrol and supervisory positions during his 19-years on the department. It is evident that he has the respect of the rank-and-file officers. Allentown is in good hands with Chief Roca at the helm of the department.”
Chief Roca graduated from Dieruff High School and holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from King’s College in Wilkes-Barre. He is a February 2020 graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.
Chief Roca is the recipient of four department commendations for merit.
Roca’s nomination goes before City Council for confirmation. Council will set a date for a hearing on the nomination.
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