Detective Division

Responsibilities

The Detective Division serves investigative functions for the department. Members assigned to this function have been promoted from the Patrol Division, work in plainclothes and perform the following functions:

  • Act as a liaison with representatives from federal, state, county, and other municipal agencies, and exchange information concerning known criminals and criminal activity
  • Assist in primary investigations when requested
  • Clear crimes through arrest and recovery of stolen property, execute search warrants and apprehends fugitives
  • Conduct follow-up felony investigations initiated by the Patrol Division, as well as certain misdemeanors as deemed appropriate
  • Coordinate information with prosecuting agencies during investigations for upcoming court cases

Training

Detectives received additional training in many specialized areas, including but not limited to:

  • Arson Investigation
  • Asset Forfeiture
  • Auto Theft
  • Crime Scene and Evidence Processing
  • FBI Safe Streets Task Force
  • Firearms and Ballistics
  • Gang Intelligence and Investigation brochure (pdf)
  • Homicide Investigation
  • Interview and Interrogation
  • Juvenile Law and Procedure
  • Narcotics Investigation
  • Public Information
  • Sex Offender Management
  • Sexual Assault Investigation

William “Chip” Lahar is a 19 year member of the City of Newburgh Police Department. Chip was born and raised in the Hudson Valley, NY. Chip graduated from Mount St. Mary College in Newburgh, NY in 2000, and earned a degree in Business ManagemSergeant William Lahar - Detective Sergeant ent. Chip began his master’s program at Mount St. Mary College, shortly thereafter.  Chip was a three year captain for Mount St Mary College’s Men’s Soccer Team. Chip attended the Rockland County Police academy in 2003.

 Chip served in the Patrol Division until 2014 when he was promoted to the rank of Detective. Chip then became the Homicide Detective, before being promoted to Sergeant in 2016. Chip worked as a Patrol Sergeant until he was transferred to the Detective Division in 2020. Chip currently serves as the Investigations Commander. 

During his 19 years of service, Chip has attained certifications in FBI SWAT, FBI Sniper, FBI Defensive Tactics Instructor, FBI Physical Fitness Instructor, and NYTOA Shield Operator. Chip served 15 years on the City of Newburgh SWAT Team, and is one of the most decorated Officers in this Department’s history