In Memoriam - 2020's

Major Jeffrey A. Burke

Jeffrey A. Burke was born on May 2, 1973, in Belleville, NJ. Major Burke was raised in North Arlington, NJ. He graduated from Queen of Peace High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Stockton University and a Master’s degree from Seton Hall University.

Major Burke enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on October 3, 1997, as a member of the 118th Class. He served in Troop "A" at the Port Norris and Woodbine Stations and later in Troop "E" at the Bass River Station and the Tactical Patrol Unit.

Throughout his distinguished career, Major Burke served in several specialized units, including the Organized Crime Control Central Bureau, Intelligence Center, Street Gang Central Unit, Analysis Unit, Weapons Trafficking Unit, Crime Suppression Central Unit, Joint Terrorism Taskforce, Office of the Regional Operations & Intelligence Center, Office of the Deputy Superintendent of Investigations, Counter-Terrorism Bureau, and the Intelligence & Criminal Enterprise Section.

Before his passing, Major Burke was the Commanding Officer of the Intelligence & Criminal Enterprise Section, where he expanded partnerships with federal, state, and local agencies. His expertise in counterterrorism and dismantling sophisticated criminal organizations was widely recognized and respected.

Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Major Burke was assigned to Ground Zero in New York City. His exposure to dust and debris during this assignment led to a cancer diagnosis. On December 31, 2024, Major Burke passed away from his illness.

Major Burke served with the New Jersey State Police for 27 years and 3 months.

He is survived by his wife, daughter, son, brother, and sisters.