Two Longport police officers promoted to the rank of lieutenant

Promotion

Longport Police Department Promotes Sergeants Ray Burgan and Nicholas Rettino to the Rank of Lieutenant

Longport, NJ - On Wednesday September 18, 2024, the Longport Police Department proudly announced the promotion of Sergeant Nicholas Rettino and Sergeant Ray Burgan to the rank of Lieutenant during the Longport Commission meeting. 

Lieutenant Rettino, a 2011 graduate of Stockton College with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Beginning his career in law enforcement in 2009 as a seasonal SLEO II Officer with the Avalon Police Department, Rettino went on to serve in a similar capacity with the Mullica Twp Police Department before joining the Stockton University Police Department in 2011. In 2013, Rettino transitioned to the Longport Police Department where he has held various important roles, including Fire Arms Instructor, Drug Recognition Expert (D.R.E.),  Scheduling Supervisor, Internal Affairs, and FTO Supervisor. Rettino obtained a Master of Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson (2023) and is also a graduate of New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Command & Leadership. Rettino also served as a member of the Atlantic County SWAT team from 2020 to 2024. 

Lieutenant Burgan, a 2004 graduate of Moravian College with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, has demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill throughout his law enforcement career. Graduating from the Gloucester County Police Academy through the alternate route program in 2010, Burgan joined the Longport Police Department in January 2012. Completing his Master's degree in Homeland Security Studies and Counter Terrorism from Farleigh Dickinson University in 2016, Burgan's expertise extends beyond traditional policing. His background in the NJ Air National Guard and subsequent commissioning as a Lieutenant with the Air Force have further enriched his capabilities. Burgan also graduated from the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Command & Leadership in 2020. Within the Longport Police Department, Burgan has fulfilled numerous roles, including Defensive Tactics Instructor, Physical Training Instructor, Public Information Officer, Evidence Supervisor, Training Coordinator, Policy Development, Grant Coordinator, and Internal Affairs.

Longport Police Chief Frank Culmone emphasized the importance of Lieutenants within the command structure, stating, "Lieutenants Rettino and Burgan exemplify leadership and dedication in their service to the Longport community. Their promotion represents our commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within our department and ensuring effective leadership for the future. I have no doubt that they will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service as they take on their new roles."

Downbeach Article by Nanette Galloway