Col. Christopher Paris is stepping down as commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police to take a new position with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. His last day will be January 2, 2026, concluding a 26-year career with the agency.
Paris was nominated by Governor Josh Shapiro on January 19, 2023, and unanimously confirmed by the state Senate shortly thereafter. In a statement, Paris expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the agency. He said it was an honor to serve the people of Pennsylvania and praised the work of the state police during his tenure.
Under Paris’ leadership, the agency received funding for 12 cadet classes, graduating 550 new troopers. The most recent state budget increased the law enforcement agency’s $1.5 billion funding by $69.3 million, enough to support three additional cadet classes.
State officials also reported improvements in public safety metrics during Paris’ tenure. Violent crime reportedly fell by 12%, homicides decreased by 34%, and fatal gun violence dropped by 42%. Many municipalities—1,279 in total—rely solely on state troopers for law enforcement services, highlighting the importance of his leadership.
Governor Shapiro praised Paris for his integrity and accomplishments. He noted that Paris oversaw some of the state’s most challenging investigations and manhunts, maintaining accountability and public trust while leading one of the nation’s largest police agencies.
Paris will be succeeded by Lt. Col. George Bivens, the agency’s deputy commissioner of operations, who will serve as acting commissioner starting December 31, 2025. Bivens brings decades of experience, including leadership roles in high-profile cases like the 2014 manhunt for convicted murderer Eric Frein and the 2023 search for escaped convict Danelo Cavalcante.
Bivens also received a Medal of Commendation for his role in a 1998 confrontation with Ku Klux Klan members in Somerset County, where he helped protect a fellow trooper during a tense standoff.
“I am honored to serve as acting commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police and I appreciate the confidence the Governor has placed in me,” Bivens said. He added that he looks forward to continuing the mission of keeping Pennsylvania communities safe, supporting troopers, and maintaining the agency as a model for effective and accountable law enforcement.
Bivens will need confirmation from the state Senate in the coming year to remove the interim title and become the permanent commissioner. In the meantime, he will oversee the agency’s operations and ensure a smooth transition.
Paris’ departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Pennsylvania State Police, while Bivens’ appointment promises continuity and experienced leadership for the agency moving forward.
