Payne Statement on the Passing of Sheriff Ralph Froehlich

Union, N.J. – Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the below statement following the sad news of the passing of Sheriff Ralph Froehlich at the age of 83:

“Sheriff Froehlich was a great man and an incredible public servant. Following his eight years of service in the United States Marine Corp, he had sought a career in law enforcement. He had faithfully served as Sheriff of Union County since 1977 and was in his thirteenth term. Sheriff Froehlich was a pioneer in law enforcement, starting many programs to protect the county, including gun safety programs for children and teens; ‘Union County’s Most Wanted’ television program, which led to the apprehension of over 80 Union County murderers and felons; established the Missing Persons Unit and Domestic Violence Unit; and launched a K-9 Search and Rescue Unit.

“From his time in the U.S. Marines to becoming the longest-serving County Sheriff in New Jersey history, Ralph has for decades set the standard for what it means to defend and protect. He will be remembered for his commitment to keeping the people and families of Union County safe and for always working toward the betterment of the community. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sheriff Froehlich’s family, to the Union County Sheriff’s Department, to the people of Union County, and to all the people who loved and respected Ralph. His leadership will truly be missed.”