Chief William T. Eliason Announces Retirement After 27 Years




Chief William Eliason began his career with the Riverside Township Police Department in December 1995 after graduating from the Burlington County Police Academy class #69. Upon graduation he was assigned to the patrol division. Chief Eliason was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2004, Lieutenant in 2005, Captain in 2014 and in October 2014 Chief Eliason was sworn in as the 7th Chief of Police of the Riverside Township Police Department.

During his career Chief Eliason has served as a Certified FBI Hostage Negotiator, Bias Crimes Officer, Internal Affairs Supervisor, Field Training Officer & Field Training Supervisor. Chief Eliason is also a graduate NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police Command Leadership Academy. Chief Eliason held 3 positions with the Burlington County Police Chiefs Association Executive Board; Sgt. at Arms, Secretary, and 2 terms as President of the Burlington County Police Chiefs Association in 2018 & 2019.

Chief Eliason is a United States Navy Veteran having served his county from 1988 to 1992. After completing Recruit Training in San Diego California Chief Eliason volunteered for the US Naval Submarine Service and was assigned to Basic Enlisted Submarine School in Groton Connecticut graduating in 1989. After graduation from Submarine School he was assigned to the USS Alabama SSBN 731 (blue), a Trident Ballistic Missile Submarine stationed in Bangor Washington. Chief Eliason completed 5 Strategic Deterrent Patrols during the “Cold War” era and achieved his Submarine Qualification pin, “Dolphins” or “fish” in 1990. During his submarine service he was the recipient of 2 Navy Achievement Medals, Battle Efficiency “E” ribbon, Expert Marksmen ribbon, National Defense Medal and Good Conduct Medal. By the end of his active enlistment Chief Eliason earned the rank of E-5 or a second class Petty Officer.


On Friday February 25th at 3:00 pm, Chief Eliason will make his last radio call during his walkout ceremony in front of the Riverside Police Station.  The public is welcome to attend and join us in congratulating Chief Eliason on his retirement.