Chief's Page

Chief John G. McGinnis, Jr. 

Chief John G. McGinnis, Jr. was born on July 22, 1983, and raised in Tabernacle, New Jersey. From an early age, he developed a strong work ethic, leadership and management skills, and a deep respect for the community through his work at Nixon’s General Store, a family-owned business that served the community for 55 years.

Chief McGinnis graduated from Shawnee High School in 2002, where he served as an Assistant Captain of the Varsity Ice Hockey Team. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Burlington County College in 2005 and later earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Thomas Edison State University in 2019.

In 2006, Chief McGinnis joined the Medford Lakes Police Department and attended the Burlington County Police Academy, graduating with Class 92. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of assignments and leadership positions within the Department.

In 2013, Chief McGinnis was assigned as a Detective and was honored as the Medford Lakes Police Department’s 2013 Officer of the Year. He was promoted to Sergeant in April 2014, serving as second-in-command of the Department. In January 2016, he was promoted to Lieutenant, where he continued to serve in various leadership positions, including as a Law Enforcement Against Drugs (L.E.A.D.) instructor. In 2020, he graduated from the NJSACOP Command & Leadership Academy.  Throughout his career, Chief McGinnis has received numerous citations, awards, and commendations in recognition of his service.

On December 27, 2023, Chief McGinnis was appointed as the ninth Chief of Police of the Medford Lakes Police Department. He proudly continues to lead the Department and serve the Borough and its residents.

Chief McGinnis has demonstrated a strong commitment to the law enforcement profession beyond the Medford Lakes Police Department. He served as President of the Burlington County Internal Affairs Association from 2020 through 2023. He is a member of the Burlington County Police Chiefs’ Association, the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and South Jersey Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 56.

Chief McGinnis is deeply committed to his family and community. He is blessed with his wife, Kristina, and their three children, John III, Juliana, and Leo. He serves as an Elder at his church and continues to enjoy playing ice hockey.  He served many years coaching youth sports and supporting youth initiatives. 

Chief McGinnis is proud to lead the Medford Lakes Police Department and remains committed to providing professional, compassionate, and community-focused law enforcement while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability. His goal is to strengthen the relationship between the Department and the community and ensure that the Medford Lakes Police Department continues its tradition of dedicated service to the Borough.

Personal Message:  Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths - Proverbs 3:5-6