York County News

The Senate Law and Justice Committee, under the leadership of Senator Mike Regan, has moved forward with the nomination of Major Chris Paris for the position of commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). Paris was nominated by Governor Josh Shapiro and currently holds the position of area commander for over 20 northeastern counties in Pennsylvania. He oversees approximately 1,000 enlisted and civilian personnel.

Senator Regan highlighted Major Paris's extensive experience in law enforcement. "Major Paris has a wealth of experience in law enforcement and has worked his way up the chain of command," Regan stated. "He began as a state trooper in a patrol unit and now stands poised to be the next commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police."

Paris's career with PSP started in November 1999 as a state trooper with Troop K in Skippack. In June 2013, he became a lieutenant and station commander with Troop R at Blooming Grove barracks. During his tenure there, on September 12, 2014, the barracks were attacked by domestic terrorist Eric Frein. Paris played a significant role during the ensuing 48-day manhunt that led to Frein's capture.

Throughout his career, Paris progressed through various ranks within PSP. He advanced to captain with Troop R before being promoted to major when he joined the Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards. In January 2020, he was elevated to lieutenant colonel as deputy commissioner of administration and professional responsibility under former Governor Tom Wolf's administration.

Paris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Scranton obtained in 1998 and earned his law degree from Temple University in 2004.

Senator Regan expressed strong support for Paris's nomination: “Major Paris has an impressive record of service during his more than 20 years with the Pennsylvania State Police,” he said. “As a strong backer of law enforcement, I have the utmost confidence in his ability to lead the Pennsylvania State Police and look forward to working with him.”

The committee unanimously approved Paris’s nomination through a bipartisan vote, sending it to the Senate Rules and Executive Nominations Committee for further consideration.

For more details about Senator Regan, visit www.SenatorMikeReganPa.com.