Branford Top Cop Jonathan Mulhern Honored With 'Distinguished Chief Award'

BRANFORD, CT — Branford Police Chief Jonathan Mulhern received the Distinguished Chief Award at the 2025 Police Commission Association of Connecticut Meritorious Service and Distinguished Chiefs’ dinner.

His speech and acceptance of his award were about police legitimacy and overall support within the community to build successful relationships and provide the best service.

"Among his family," police noted on social media, were members from the Branford Board of Police Commissioners, the First Selectman’s Office, Finance Department, Branford Counseling Center, and men and women of the Branford Police Department.

In a Facebook post, police asked rhetorically: "How did five tables of people show up for one person?"

"A Google search will tell you showing up is about being present; it’s about actively participating in someone’s life and showing they matter; the belief that their presence is valued," police wrote. "Chief Mulhern does just that. He goes above and beyond to 'show up' for the men and women of the Branford Police Department every day."

It was noted that Mulhern's management style involves interacting and engaging.

"He interacts and manages the agency by walking around and being involved," police wrote. "His commitment to service and his leadership over this agency are unparalleled. He is a progressive leader, dedicated to upholding high professional standards, fostering community partnerships, and making a strong commitment to personnel development. He leads by his example of integrity and ethics in everything he does."

First Selectman James Cosgrove shared Mulhern's CV while introducing the Chief.

Cosgrove pointed to Mulhern's two Master’s Degrees, one in Business Administration and the other in Management. He's a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 238, is a member of the Connecticut Police Officers Standards and Training Council, and is the previous Chair of the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Region Two Law Enforcement Committee.

Mulhern served 26 years with the North Haven Police Department, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to sergeant, lieutenant, detective supervisor, SWAT Team Commander, and ultimately as the department's Deputy Chief. A three-generation police officer, Mulhern served seven years with the Branford Police Department.