Chief Katherine Bonilla’s career in law enforcement began with the Paterson Police Department in 2008. In November of 2011, she transferred to the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, where she quickly demonstrated her exceptional skills and leadership. Her commitment and dedication led to her promotion to Sergeant in March of 2016, and later, to Lieutenant in February of 2021. She was promoted to Chief Sheriff’s Officer in January of 2025.
Throughout her career with the Sheriff’s Office, Chief Bonilla has served in various key roles within the department, including, the Bureau of Court Services, Patrol, and the Training Division. She also oversaw the Sheriff’s Special Deputy Program and commanded the Community Policing Division, where her leadership continued to have a profound impact on both the department and the community we serve.
A proud native of Paterson, Chief Bonilla has deep roots in this community. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Passaic County Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology from William Paterson University.
Chief Bonilla has been honored with the prestigious FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award, along with numerous other accolades, recognizing her outstanding service and dedication to the profession. She is also a co-chair of the Diocese of Paterson Blue Mass Committee and a New Jersey Certified Public Manager, further exemplifying her commitment to leadership and public service. Most recently she was honored as the Public Servant of the Year at the National Puerto Rican Day parade in New York City for her outstanding community service and charitable work.