08/29/2026
Yesterday, members of our department, surrounding law enforcement agencies, friends, family, and members of our community came together to honor and thank Captain Harry Murtha for 30 years of dedicated service to the Borough of Atlantic Highlands.
Captain Murtha was sworn in as a Patrolman with the Atlantic Highlands Police Department in 2001, but his service to the Borough began in 1997. A true “hometown boy,” as Captain Murtha put it, he spent the past 30 years living out his dream of serving the community he called home.
Throughout his career, Captain Murtha rose through the ranks, being promoted to Sergeant in 2012, Lieutenant in 2021, and Captain in 2022.
Beyond his accomplishments within the department, Captain Murtha became a familiar and trusted face throughout our community. Residents knew him as someone they could always talk to—someone who would listen with an open mind and make time for anyone and everyone. Whether it was during his morning coffee run, lunch break, or simply walking around town, Captain Murtha had a way of striking up a conversation and making people feel comfortable.
That genuine connection with the residents of Atlantic Highlands is what made Captain Murtha so relatable, respected, and appreciated by the community he served.
A police department cannot simply replace someone of Captain Murtha’s magnitude with a promotion or a new hire. His impact goes far beyond his position within the department. He is deeply ingrained in the fabric of our community, and the relationships he built over three decades will continue to be felt for years to come.
Captain Murtha, we thank you for 30 years of dedicated service, leadership, friendship, and commitment to the Borough of Atlantic Highlands.
Thank you for a job well done, and congratulations on an incredible career!
