Exeter Chiefs of Police

The Exeter, New Hampshire Police Department traces a proud lineage of leadership spanning more than a century. Since 1889, the Town of Exeter has been served by 20 known Chiefs of Police, each contributing to the growth, professionalism, and community-centered mission that define the department today. These chiefs have guided the agency through periods of change and progress, shaping policies, strengthening public trust, and upholding a longstanding commitment to public safety.

A Chief of Police holds a position defined not by its duration, but by its impact. In the limited time they serve, a chief has the opportunity and responsibility to set a clear vision, strengthen the culture of integrity and accountability, and leave the department better than they found it. By investing in their officers, embracing innovation, and building meaningful partnerships within the community, a chief can create lasting progress that extends far beyond their tenure. The true measure of their leadership lies in the foundation they build, one that endures, inspires, and continues to guide those who follow.

This historical record has been thoughtfully compiled through the dedicated efforts of Exeter residents George and Judy Dufour. Their time, research, and attention to detail have preserved an integral part of the town’s history for future generations. The department extends its sincere gratitude to them for their hard work and invaluable contribution in documenting the legacy of Exeter’s Chiefs of Police. The Dufours are also working on identifying all deceased Exeter officers buried at the Exeter cemetery to enable us to honor them at events throughout the year.  A big thanks to them for the time and great effort they've put into this project!  

1889-1890         Edmund Thurston                         1963-1977         Richard D. Irvine

1891-1893          Edward A. Shute                            1977-1978          Warren Cottrell 

​1893-1894        Charles F. Hervey                           1978-1984         Thomas F. Powers III

​1895-1899        George W. Munsey                        1984-1990          Frank S. Caracciolo 

​1900-1912         Charles G. Gooch                           1990-1994          Stephen B. Mackinnon

1913-1914          Beverly S. McGaughey                  1994-1999          James Gilmore 

​1915-1918          Samuel Y. Davis                              1999-2016          Richard Kane

1918-1930         Elvyn A. Bunker                                2016-2019          William Shupe

1930-1950        Thomas R. Chrysler                        2019-2026         Stephan R. Poulin  

1950-1963        Benton J. Hoitt                                 2026-                 Timothy J. McCain