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Union Today
By the People, for the People
John da Silva Appointed Chief of Union County Police Dept.
The 22-year veteran has led the department as Officer in Charge during the nearly 2-year-long transition period.
Mar. 4, 2026 at 7:04pm
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The Union County Board of County Commissioners has appointed Cpt. John da Silva as the 12th Chief of the Union County Police Department, effective immediately. Chief da Silva has been with the department for 22 years, starting as a patrol officer in 2003 and rising through the ranks. He has served as Officer in Charge during the nearly 2-year transition period following the retirement of former Union County Police Chief Martin Mogensen in July 2024.
Why it matters
The appointment of a new police chief is an important leadership transition for the Union County Police Department. Chief da Silva's extensive experience and steady leadership during the interim period are expected to provide continuity and stability for the department as it moves forward.
The details
Chief da Silva has overseen department operations and ensured continuity of leadership throughout the transition period. He has been a fixture in the county's emergency response efforts, serving nearly 18 years as a negotiator for the Union County SWAT team and leading local responses during major crises such as hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also served as a recruit instructor at the John H. Stamler Police Academy.
- Chief Mogensen retired in July 2024.
- Chief da Silva has served as Officer in Charge during the nearly 2-year transition period.
- Chief da Silva's appointment as the 12th Chief of the Union County Police Department is effective immediately.
The players
John da Silva
A 22-year veteran of the Union County Police Department who has been appointed as the 12th Chief of the department, effective immediately.
Martin Mogensen
The former Union County Police Chief who retired in July 2024.
Joseph Bodek
The Union County Board of County Commissioners Chairman.
Edward Oatman
The Union County Manager who made the appointment of Chief da Silva.
Dennis Burke
The Union County Director of Public Safety.
What they’re saying
“I have watched him grow into the leader he is today, both professionally and personally. His integrity is unquestioned, and his commitment to this county runs deep. This appointment is not only well deserved, it reflects the kind of steady, principled leadership our residents expect and deserve.”
— Joseph Bodek, Union County Board of County Commissioners Chairman
“I've spent over 22 years here, and this department has shaped much of who I am professionally. The strength of this agency comes from the people who show up every day ready to serve. I'm proud to lead them. I'm also sincerely grateful to county leadership for their trust and confidence in entrusting me with this responsibility. I will continue to approach this role the same way I always have — with dedication, fairness and a steady focus on doing the job the right way.”
— John da Silva
“Chief da Silva has consistently led with integrity, sound judgment and a strong sense of duty. His experience, operational knowledge and dedication to the department make him exceptionally well-qualified to serve as chief. I am confident he will continue to strengthen the Union County Police Department and uphold the highest standards of law enforcement.”
— Edward Oatman, Union County Manager
“Since the retirement of Chief Mogensen, Chief da Silva has served as officer in charge and provided steady, day-to-day leadership for the department during an important transition. He understands the operational responsibilities of this role and the importance of supporting the officers who serve our communities. His professionalism, experience, and commitment to public safety make him exceptionally well-suited to serve as chief.”
— Dennis Burke, Union County Director of Public Safety
What’s next
A formal swearing-in ceremony for Chief da Silva will be held at a later date.
The takeaway
The appointment of Chief da Silva, a 22-year veteran of the Union County Police Department, provides continuity and stability for the department as it transitions to new leadership. His extensive experience, steady management during the interim period, and commitment to public service are expected to strengthen the department and maintain high standards of law enforcement for the community.
