Chief Michael E. Lloyd Monroe Township officials seemed to know they had something special in their next chief of police when they witnessed the service of Michael E. Lloyd during Hurricane Sandy.
“We saw you in action as acting chief in the most recent hurricane,” said Mayor Richard Pucci. “There were so many things you were doing, and taking command and leadership.”
Lloyd was formally administered the oath of office for the position of police chief at the Jan. 2 Township Council reorganization meeting. He replaces John Kraivec, who is retiring after a 25-year career with the department.
Pucci also lauded Lloyd’s work in the department, where he first served as a dispatcher in 1988. “He came up through the ranks,” Pucci said. “Chief, I have to say, your record has been impeccable over the years. The police department is in good hands.”
Lloyd was appreciative of the department, the township and his family for their support.
“I’m not a big public speaker, but I would just like to say, thank you,” he said.
He said he hopes to maintain the level of service and safety the department has provided the township.
“We’re very fortunate. Monroe Township [has] a very structured department,” he said. “My goal is to never let you down and stay loyal to you.”
Lloyd graduated from the Middlesex County Police Academy and was appointed patrolman in 1990. He was then promoted to sergeant, lieutenant and captain in 2001, 2008 and 2010, respectively.
Officials pointed out Lloyd’s graduation from the 245th session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va., in 2011. He is the first officer from the township to graduate from the academy.
Lloyd and his wife Liz have three sons, Michael, Thomas and Jake.
Councilman Stephen Dalina said the packed audience of supporters, including officers and civilians, was a testament to Lloyd’s ability to serve effectively as chief of police.
Councilwoman Leslie Koppel agreed.
“The loyalty that your officers have for you is going to provide stability and safety for the entire township of Monroe,” Koppel said. “It’s what makes Monroe a safe community and what makes it a vibrant community.”
Pucci also thanked Lloyd’s predecessor for his years of service.
“We had a wonderful experience, Chief Kraivec and myself,” Pucci said, noting that he relied heavily on Kraivec for input on who should become the next chief. “He was truly professional in everything he did.”
Kraivec, who became chief in 2004, directed attention back to his successor.
“Tonight’s all about Mike. Everyone’s here in support of him, ” Kraivec said. “Mike’s been one of the hardest workers I’ve known over my whole career.
“I know he’ll do a wonderful job. He’s got a great family to support him,” he added. “Mike, congratulations. I know you’ll to take the department into the future.”