Chief Mark Murray has over 20 years experience in law enforcement. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from SUNY Potsdam in 2002 and graduated from the 2003 St. Lawrence County Law Enforcement Academy at SUNY Canton with honors. He completed an internship with the Potsdam Police Department in 2001 and worked as a part-time Officer for Norwood Police Department before being hired by Potsdam PD in 2003. He has served several specialized roles such as Evidence Technician, Juvenile Officer, Field Training Officer, Field Intelligence Officer, St. Lawrence County Drug Task Force Investigator, Federal Task Force Officer for the Border Enforcement Security Task Force. Chief Murray is currently a certified Police Academy general topics Instructor, specializing in Tactical Communications and Procedural Justice. He serves as Co-Chair for New York State Counter Terrorism Zone 8 and is a member of the National Association of Chiefs of Police.

Chief Murray was promoted to Lieutenant in 2010 and Chief in 2016, currently serving as the chief administrator and executive officer of the police department with control of the administration, disposition, and discipline of the police department, and the police force and civilian personnel.

Awards and Commendations:

• Grand Cordon Award (2008) – for exemplary service during a complex murder investigation

• Life Saving Award (2009)

• Letter for Burglary Investigation Apprehension (2006)

• Letter for Exemplary Service (2007)

• New York State Senate Liberty Award (2014)

During Chief Murray’s tenure, he has implemented policies, procedures, and initiatives to reduce crime, build community trust and increase transparency, while embracing constitutional policing, police proactivity, and collaboration with the community.