Superintendent Timothy M. Bernhardt is a highly decorated and accomplished law enforcement leader with 28 years of experience, including 23 years of dedicated service with the Upper Darby Township Police Department. Through his extensive experience as an officer and investigator, he quickly advanced through the ranks, earning command roles as a Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. Overseeing the Narcotics Division and the Mountain Bicycle and Traffic Unit.
A proud graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School, the Delaware County Municipal Police Academy, Williamson College of the Trades, and Neumann University, Superintendent Bernhardt is recognized for his strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and commitment to mentorship. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, most notably as the recipient of the prestigious Dennis McNamara Police Officer of the Year Memorial Award.
Superintendent Bernhardt has established strong working relationships with key law enforcement agencies, playing a vital role with the Delaware County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force and the FBI’s Violent Gang Task Force. His expertise includes conducting hundreds of undercover operations across the county and beyond state lines. As a well-regarded professional, he was often called upon to provide expert testimony in various courts of law.
A champion of innovation and progressive policing, Superintendent Bernhardt led the department’s Racial Intelligence Training Program, certifying 133 officers in communication techniques that have strengthened department morale and enhanced community trust.
Under his leadership, the Upper Darby Township Police Department achieved PLEAC accreditation, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in policing standards. He spearheaded the implementation of body-worn cameras for all officers, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. Utilizing 21st-century policing strategies, he revamped and expanded the Emergency Services Unit (ESU), introducing an unmanned aircraft (drone) specifically designed for high-risk operations. This cutting-edge technology enhances situational awareness, enables real-time communication, and aids in de-escalation efforts during critical incidents.
Recognizing national challenges in law enforcement recruitment and retention, Superintendent Bernhardt worked closely with the mayor to revise civil service guidelines, improving hiring processes and officer retention. Additionally, he collaborated with township officials to increase the department’s ranks by five additional officers, ensuring adequate staffing for the sixth-largest municipality in Pennsylvania.
To strengthen community engagement, Superintendent Bernhardt expanded the department’s Community Affairs Division, launching the TAP’S program in collaboration with public and parochial schools. This initiative has been instrumental in building positive relationships between law enforcement and local youth, fostering trust and cooperation.
His leadership and impact have gained national recognition. He was featured on A&E’s Intervention (Season 20) and worked closely with the NFL Network on a social justice feature starring Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins as part of the Let’s Listen Together initiative, highlighting the department’s commitment to community-oriented policing.
Born and raised in Upper Darby Township, Superintendent Bernhardt remains deeply committed to serving and representing the residents of his hometown with integrity, dedication, and a passion for public safety.