TRENTON – In observance of the anniversary of the passing of former Woodbine Chief of Police Phillip John DeSantis, Governor Phil Murphy today ordered that U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities on Sunday, August 6, 2023, which marks 50 years since Chief DeSantis was killed in the line of duty. Chief DeSantis was tragically murdered on August 6, 1973, at the age of 54, after stopping a suspect who was fleeing an armed robbery.

“Law enforcement officers across New Jersey put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect the people of this state and it is important to honor the sacrifice of Chief Phillip DeSantis, who dedicated his life to keeping our communities safe,” said Governor Murphy. “A veteran of World War II, Chief DeSantis served for nearly 20 years in the police department for the Borough of Woodbine in Cape May County, where he also received the Medal of Valor from the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association of New Jersey. Chief DeSantis was a loving husband and uncle, whose memory lives in the hearts of his family, friends, and all law enforcement officers.”

For a copy of Executive Order No. 337, click here.