Chief Mark Freeman to Retire After Nearly 35 Years
Chief Freeman, who joined the department on Dec. 3, 1991 and rose through every rank, retires Oct. 11, 2026 after modernizing operations, expanding community programs, and mentoring his successor.
Chief Mark Freeman will retire on October 11, 2026 after nearly 35 years with the Upper Providence Township Police Department, having joined on December 3, 1991 and advanced through every rank to become chief. During his tenure he led accreditation efforts, improved recruitment and diversity, modernized firearms and less-lethal programs, introduced drone capabilities, established a regional crash investigation team and a K‑9 unit, and created a Community Engagement Unit with programs like Walk with a Cop and Coffee with a Cop. Township leaders praised his integrity and steady leadership, and incoming Chief Ryan Sheehan — who served under Freeman’s mentorship for more than a decade — is positioned to carry forward the department’s community-focused, modern policing approach.